Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease is the backflow of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus due to a weakened lower esophageal sphincter muscle. The lower esophageal sphincter muscle normally stays tightly closed to prevent reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus. However, the muscle may be weakened by certain medical conditions, foods and drugs. Patients receiving acid reflux treatment should avoid certain foods that aggravate acid reflux.
Alcoholic Beverages and Caffeinated Beverages
Patients with acid reflux should avoid alcoholic beverages, caffeinated soft drinks, regular coffee, decaffeinated coffee and tea, according to Gicare.com. Alcohol has an acidic content that irritates the lining of the esophagus and the stomach. Coffee increases the production of stomach acid, which causes further irritation to an inflamed esophagus.
Citrus Fruits and Juices
Patients with acid reflux have inflammation or sores on the lining of the esophagus. Eating citrus fruits that have a high acidic content may cause further irritation to the esophagus, according to Gicare.com. Examples of acidic fruits and juices to be avoided by patients with acid reflux include oranges, pineapple, lime, grapefruit, lemon, lemonade, orange juice, lemonade, pineapple juice and grapefruit juice. Patients should opt for fruits with low acidity such as apples, berries, melons, bananas, peaches and pears.
Tomato-based Products, Spices and Fatty Foods
Patients with acid reflux should avoid eating tomatoes, tomato-based sauces, spicy foods and fatty foods, according to Gicare.com. Tomatoes and tomato-based products such as pizza sauce, pasta sauce, marinara and salsa contain a high acid content that irritates the lower esophagus. Spices such as black pepper, curry powder and chili powder also irritate the esophagus. Fatty foods cause increased production of stomach acid because they are hard to digest. The overproduction of stomach acid further irritates the stomach. Examples of fatty foods to avoid include sausages, bacon, fatty meat, chicken skin, hot dogs and steak.
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