Acid reflux occurs when food and stomach acids come back up the esophagus, generating a painful, burning feeling in the esophagus and upper-chest area, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Many times the acidic contents can even reach back up to the throat and mouth, resulting in further pain and discomfort. Acid reflux and its symptoms can develop into something larger and more serious, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly known as GERD. Getting acid reflux under control is recommended to alleviate painful symptoms, but it could also prevent the development of more serious health problems. Certain foods are better than others to include in the diet for those who suffer from acid reflux.
Low-Fat Dairy
Low-fat and nonfat dairy foods are foods to include for an acid reflux diet. These foods are less likely to provoke symptoms with their lower fat content. Higher-fat products tend to decrease lower esophageal pressure, allowing gastric contents to come back up into the esophagus. Low-fat or nonfat dairy versions of milk, cheese, sour cream, yogurt and ice cream are available.
Water
Water is certainly an important fluid for acid reflux sufferers. Water is the least offending liquid, as it is not acidic, spicy or citrus. Coffee and tea are acidic and provoke symptoms. Citrus juices are acidic and also cause reflux symptoms. "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care" encourages avoiding these liquids in order to neutralize gastric acidity.
Lean Protein
Lean protein food sources are good to consume for two reasons. The first reason is that lean proteins are low in fat, which is less provoking than high-fat protein food sources such as red meat. The second reason is that protein stimulates gastrin, which helps improve lower esophageal pressure, according to "Nutrition and Diagnosis Related Care." Gastrin is a hormone that stimulates gastric acid to be released to assist with digestion.
References
- "Nutrition and Diagnosis-Related Care"; Sylvia Escott-Stump; 2002
- National Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER) and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
