Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD often causes frequent symptoms of heartburn because of increased acid reflux. Avoiding certain foods, along with taking over-the-counter or prescribed medication, helps to control episodes. A healthy diet for GERD decreases symptoms and may provide long-term relief without the need for medicine in some cases. A proper diet may also avoid problems in the future from GERD, such as esophageal ulcers and damage to the esophagus. Consult with your doctor about your diet and advice on medication.
Function
Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, a valve-like muscle in the esophagus, does not close tightly after food enters the stomach and allows stomach acid to back up. This can cause the burning or pain in the upper chest and throat from heartburn. Chronic or recurring acid reflux indicates GERD, according to the McKinley Health Center, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
Meals
Foods to avoid that trigger acid reflux by relaxing the esophageal muscle include fatty or fried foods, garlic, onions, mints, chocolate, caffeine and alcohol, MayoClinic.com notes. However, you may have your own particular trigger foods. Lying down too soon after a meal may also worsen heartburn. Wait at least two to three hours after eating before lying down or bedtime. Maintaining a healthy weight avoids pressure on the abdomen, which can push the stomach up and cause acid reflux. A GERD diet helps with weight management.
Protein Strength
A diet rich in protein may protect the lining of the esophagus. Protein helps to build muscles and may strengthen the esophageal muscle, HealthCentral points out. Some protein foods contain fat, so include lean meats, poultry without skin and fish in your diet. Cut visible fat from meats when preparing and broil, grill or bake meats, poultry and fish. Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy products over whole-milk dairy products.
Fiber
Fiber-rich fruits, vegetables and whole grains digest rapidly without making the stomach use more acid for digestion. This avoids indigestion and gas, often caused by fatty foods, which can lead to acid reflux. Do not eat citrus fruits if you find they cause acid reflux because of their acidic properties. Avoid fried vegetables or vegetables in creamy sauces or soups. Eat plenty of whole-wheat bread, pasta and cereal, oatmeal, brown rice and barley for whole grain sources.
Sweets
You can enjoy snacks and desserts when you have GERD, but make them low-fat sweets. Limit snacks to 3 g fat or less per serving, according to Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Avoid chocolate or desserts made with oils and fats. Carbonated beverages can trigger acid reflux. Substitute decaffeinated, non-mint herbal tea, fruit and vegetable juices, except when containing citrus, and water.
