A GERD, or gastroesophageal disease, diet does not mean eating bland food. It includes plenty of delicious foods that provide ongoing protection from acid reflux. The foods you can eat on a GERD diet also provide nutritional benefits that help you maintain a healthy weight. Don't just think about the foods you cannot eat on a GERD diet -- focus on the new foods that let you eat without fear of discomfort.
Function
Acid reflux causes the burning sensation in the chest and stomach known as heartburn. The uncomfortable feeling usually occurs after eating certain foods or a heavy meal. An esophageal muscle relaxes and allows stomach acid back up, the Cleveland Clinic notes. Foods that relax the muscle and trigger acid reflux may include fatty or fried foods, tomato products, citrus fruits, onions, garlic, chocolate, mint, carbonated beverages, coffee or alcohol. Particular foods may affect people differently.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables contain vitamins, minerals and are high in fiber, to aid in digestion. They move smoothly through the stomach, which does not need excess stomach acid for digestion. This decreases the risk of acid reflux. Bananas, peaches, apples, pears and melons offer protection from acid reflux. Avoid acidic fruits, including oranges, lemons, grapefruit, pineapple and tomatoes, which can promote heartburn, HealthCentral points out. Avoid fried or creamy vegetables.
Whole Grains
Whole grains also contain fiber to aid in digestion. They have a thick quality that can absorb excess acid in the stomach. Whole grains contain selenium, a mineral which may help protect the lining of the esophagus, HealthCentral says. People with GERD may suffer from frequent bouts of acid reflux and this can damage the esophagus over time. Eat plenty of oatmeal, popcorn, brown rice, barley and whole-wheat bread, pasta and cereal.
Low-Fat Foods
Choose lean meat, white meat chicken and fish for protein, the Nil Heartburn website advises. Fatty meats or chicken with fatty skin can increase the risk of heartburn. Use low-fat or fat free dairy products instead of whole-milk dairy items. You can also include snacks and desserts in a GERD diet. Low-fat cookies, red licorice, jellybeans and baked potato chips help avoid acid reflux.
Considerations
Heavy meals contribute to acid reflux. Penn Medicine suggests eating three small meals and three snacks a day instead of three large meals. Drink small amounts of fluids at mealtime to ease digestion and get your liquids during other times of the day. Do not lie down or sleep within three hours after eating to avoid stomach acid backup from food not yet digested.
