GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease, a condition in which stomach acid or bile rises up into the esophagus, creating heartburn, nausea, difficulty swallowing and dry cough, notes the health education website of the Mayo Clinic. A healthy diet that does not trigger your symptoms is a vital aspect of GERD treatment. Your diet should also promote healthy weight management and support overall wellness. Talk to your dietitian or physician before adjusting your diet.
Whole Grains
Whole grain provide fiber-rich carbohydrate and important nutrient options that provide glucose, your body's main source of energy. Whole grains are also closely associated to weight management and improved cardiovascular health. The American Dietetic Association suggests a minimum of three 1-oz servings of whole grains on a daily basis. One-ounce servings include 1/2 cup oatmeal, 1/2 cup cooked wild or brown rice or one slice of whole-grain bread. Additional whole grains include barley, oats, popcorn, spelt, bulgar and millet.
Vegetables and Fruits
Vegetables and fruits contain a host of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants that enable your body's immune system to defend itself against disease and infection. As fiber-rich foods, vegetables and fruits help your body feel sated with few calories. Most vegetables and fruits, other than acid-packed citrus fruits and tomatoes, safely fit within a GERD-friendly diet, reports the University of Illinois McKinley Health Center. Include antioxidant-rich varieties such as apples, bananas, pears, berries, bell peppers, broccoli, melons, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and other leafy green vegetables to your daily diet. If your doctor has suggested or approved weight loss as part of your GERD treatment, increasing your vegetables and fruit during meals can keep your appetite in check and regulate your intake of foods with more calories.
Lean Protein Sources
Protein provide amino acids, which promote lean tissue formation. Protein also contributes to sustained energy, cognitive abilities and cognitive functions. Since greasy and high-fat foods can aggravate GERD symptoms, notes the University of Illinois McKinley Medical Center, opt for lean versions. Lean protein sources include egg whites, skinless breast of turkey and chicken, legumes, lean ground turkey and low-fat dairy products. To ward off GERD symptoms, select low-fat cooking methods, including boiling, baking, steaming and grilling. Low-fat yogurt often contains probiotics or healthy bacteria that may prevent bacterial infections or ease digestive distress.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- American College of Gastroenterology: The Word on GERD
- University of Illinois McKinley Health Center: The GERD diet
- MayoClinic.com: GERD Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- American Dietetic Association: Whole Grain Suggestions
