Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is diagnosed when the lower esophageal sphincter muscle opens spontaneously or does not close properly, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus. This can lead to a burning sensation in your throat or chest that feels like heartburn or indigestion. There are foods that can make your condition worse and foods that can keep your symptoms under control. Each person responds differently, so it may take some trial and error to find the foods that work best for you.
Foods High in Fiber
Foods high in fiber move through your digestive system quickly, so they may not irritate you as much. This includes whole grains, raw or steamed vegetables, beans, nuts and seeds and other unprocessed plant foods. Vegetables that are not prepared with tomato or cream sauces are good choices.
Liquids
Stick to liquids such as water, mineral water, decaffeinated tea, non-citrus juices and nonfat, skim or low-fat dairy products. These items are less likely to set off your GERD symptoms. Drinks that are not carbonated and do not contain caffeine are good choices.
Foods With Less Fat
You can eat the foods you usually enjoy by preparing them differently. Foods that you used to fry can be baked, broiled, grilled or roasted. You can also cut down on GERD symptoms by trimming the fat off meat and poultry and taking the skin off of chicken.
Gum
Chew gum that is not peppermint or mint flavored, as mint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. Chewing gum after a meal will stimulate saliva production. Saliva can neutralize acid and aids the stomach in digesting food faster so it will not stay in your system and irritate it.
