Acid reflux causes a burning and painful sensation of heartburn in the upper chest and throat. Acid regurgitation, which leads to a bitter or sour taste in the back of the mouth, sometimes occurs. You can avoid particular foods that trigger acid reflux, but certain foods help prevent and relieve acid reflux when added to the diet.
Function
An esophageal muscle that does not close tightly after food enters the stomach allows acidic contents to rise back up into the esophagus to produce acid reflux. Trigger foods relax the esophageal muscle to promote the reaction. Heartburn can happen occasionally, but if you suffer from frequent acid reflux it can damage the lining of your esophagus over time, according to the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health.
Irritation
People respond differently to particular foods. You have to take note of foods you have eaten when you experience acid reflux to avoid episodes in the future. Common foods that irritate acid reflux include fatty and fried foods, tomatoes and tomato products, citrus fruits, chocolate, peppermint, spearmint, coffee, carbonated beverages and alcohol, Penn Medicine notes.
Fiber
Fiber foods aid the digestive process to prevent or reduce acid reflux. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains digest rapidly so the stomach does not secrete excess acid. Fatty foods remain in the stomach longer to increase acid secretion and the risk of acid reflux. Most fruits and vegetables fit into an acid reflux diet, but avoid citrus fruits and creamy or fried vegetables, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Whole grains include whole wheat breads and pastas, oatmeal, brown rice, cracked wheat and popcorn without additives, such as butter.
Options
Protein may play a role in strengthening the esophageal muscle to prevent acid reflux and heartburn, HealthCentral explains. Eat low-fat options for protein, such as lean meats, poultry without skin and low-fat or fat-free dairy products. Eat low-fat snacks and desserts instead of sweets with a high fat content that may encourage acid reflux. Decaffeinated herbal teas can replace coffee or tea.
Habits
Eating small, frequent meals may help with digestion to prevent or relieve acid reflux, according to Penn Medicine. You can benefit from eating six small meals a day as an alternative to three large meals. Heavy meals can result in acid reflux because of slow digestion. Eat sitting upright and consume a small amount of fluid during a meal. Have your fluids at other times. You can also avoid acid reflux by waiting at least three hours after eating before lying down or sleeping.
