Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, usually after eating. This results in heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest and throat. Antacids and acid reducing medication can relieve the discomfort when it happens occasionally. When you frequently experience episodes, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. Prescription medication and changing your diet relieves its symptoms.
Function
A muscle-like valve, called the lower esophageal sphincter, controls food as it passes into the stomach, the Cleveland Clinic explains. When the muscle does not close tightly after food enters the stomach, acid reflux results. Sometimes, acid regurgitation, a sour taste in the back of the mouth, occurs. People with GERD may have a persistently weakened esophageal muscle. Lifestyle changes can strengthen the muscle. In rare cases, surgery reinforces the lower esophageal sphincter.
Aggravate
Eliminating foods and beverages from the diet that trigger symptoms can reduce acid reflux. High-fat foods, tomato products, citrus juices, carbonated beverages, chocolate, mint, coffee and alcohol may aggravate GERD, according to the McKinley Health Center, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. You may have your own specific triggers.
Overeating
Fatty foods and large meals increase the risk of acid reflux. They decrease pressure on the esophageal muscle and delay stomach emptying. The stomach requires excess acid for digestion. Eating high-fat foods also promotes weight gain. Excess pounds put pressure on the abdomen, pushing the stomach up and causing acid reflux. Do not lie down within three hours after eating to avoid acid backup.
Low Fat
Low-fat foods play a major role in a GERD diet. Eat lean meat, poultry without skin and fish. Broil or bake these foods instead of frying them. Fried foods trigger acid reflux. Replace whole-milk dairy products with low-fat or fat-free items. You can benefit from low-fat snacks and desserts, as well. Eat sweets with less than or equal to 3 g fat per serving, according to Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. The Nil Heartburn website recommends sweets such as low-fat cookies, jellybeans and red licorice. Choose fat-free or low-fat soups over chicken, beef or creamed soups.
Fiber
Eat plenty of fiber-rich fruits, vegetables and whole grains, Penn Medicine advises. Fiber foods digest quickly to avoid acid reflux. Add peaches, pears, melons, apples and berries to your GERD diet. Avoid citrus fruits and juices if those acidic items cause heartburn. Vegetables help you to avoid acid reflux except when fried or part of creamy sauces. Whole-wheat bread, pasta and cereal, oatmeal, barley and brown rice make up healthy whole grains to prevent acid reflux.
