Acid reflux, referred to medically as "gastro-esophageal reflux disease" (GERD) and colloquially as "heartburn," is a painful condition in which acid in the stomach leaks up into the esophagus, according to Patient UK. Controlling acid reflux involves the use of either medication or a modified diet, or both. You can prevent flare-ups and keep symptoms at bay by developing an understanding of which foods to avoid.
Fatty Foods
Foods with a high fat content have been linked to a high incidence of acid reflux. According to PurplePill.com, these foods tend to relax the esophageal sphincter muscles, causing acid leaks. Examples of fatty foods include all fried foods, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, as well as foods high in saturated and trans fats. These include many highly processed cookies, crackers and store-bought pastries.
Caffeinated Drinks
PurplePill.com notes that caffeinated drinks cause problems for people with acid reflux due to the acidity of the drinks. These beverages include coffee, teas and sodas. Some hot chocolates are also caffeinated and should be avoided.
Tomato-Based Foods
Tomatoes are linked with acid reflux. MedHelp notes that this includes whole tomatoes in salads and juices as well as items that have tomatoes as a core ingredient. Pizzas, pasta sauces, chilis and other popular foods with tomatoes should be avoided to ward off acid reflux flare-ups.
Citrus Products
Acid reflux may be aggravated by citrus fruits and products, according to Family Doctor. Tangerines, grapefruits, lemons, limes and oranges are all citrus. Many foods also have citric acid added as a preservative or fixative agent, so those with acid reflux will want to read labels carefully to eliminate citrus from their diets.
Mint
MedHelp reports that mint and peppermint can cause acid reflux flare-ups. Though some natural health traditions advocate mint as a stomach soother, PurplePill.com notes that, in people with acid reflux, it may have an aggravating rather than soothing effect.
Alcoholic Drinks
Patient UK suggests avoiding alcoholic drinks if you are prone to acid reflux. The alcohol in wine, beer and cocktails will make the symptoms worse, as alcohol stimulates the production of stomach acid.
References
- Family Doctor: Heartburn
- MedHelp: Foods to Avoid & Eating Behaviors for Acid Reflux (Heartburn/GERD) Sufferers
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroespohageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- Patient UK: Acid Reflux & Oesophagitis
- PurplePill.com: Foods to Avoid with Acid Reflux
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