Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition that results in a burning sensation in the chest, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may also product symptoms such as vomiting, sore throat, nausea and belching. This condition occurs when hydrochloric acid and other digestive acids move from the stomach to the esophagus. Although there is no cure for GERD, certain foods may help control the symptoms of this condition.
Contact your physician before changing your diet to address GERD symptoms. Diet should not replace medical attention for this condition.
Lean Proteins
Consume foods that are sources of lean protein, such as tofu, soy milk, textured vegetable protein, fish, lean poultry and beans. When used to replace fatty protein sources, such as pork and beef, these foods may reduce the frequency and severity of GERD symptoms. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, red meats are high in saturated fats, which can trigger the escape of acids from the stomach into the esophagus.
Alkaline Foods
According to Dr. James Balch and Phyllis Balch, authors of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," alkaline foods may help reduce the symptoms of GERD. Alkaline foods may help control acid levels in the stomach, reducing the risk of acids moving from the stomach into the esophagus. These foods include garlic, eggs, almonds, yogurt, berries, apple cider vinegar, sea vegetables and mushrooms.
Whole Grains
Whole-grain products, such as whole-wheat bread, whole grain tortillas, wheat pasta and whole-grain bagels, may help control GERD when used in place of refined flour products. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, white breads and pastas, pastries, doughnuts and other foods containing refined flours and sugars may trigger acid reflux, producing the burning sensation associated with GERD.
Olive Oil
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, replacing hydrogenated oils and trans fats with cold-pressed oils, such as olive oil, may be beneficial for people with GERD. Olive oil is an unsaturated fat that may not have the same effect on stomach acids as trans fats and hydrogenated oils. Choose extra-virgin olive oil, which is not altered by heat or chemical processing.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 1997
