Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux, results from the opening of the lower esophageal sphincter for varying amounts of time resulting in the acidic contents of the stomach rising up into the esophagus. You know you are suffering from acid reflux when you can taste food in the back of the throat, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders. It can also lead to burning and indigestion. A bland diet may be recommended to help alleviate symptoms.
Milk
Low-fat milk and yogurt are allowed on the bland diet for acid reflux, according to Medline Plus. Foods high in fat, including whole milk and full-fat yogurts, aggravate acid reflux. Eating small frequent meals may help alleviate your acid reflux symptoms, says the Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology Group. It is also recommend that your last meal be at least two hours before bedtime.
Vegetables
You should be able to tolerate all vegetables as long as they are prepared without fat, according to the Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology group. Canned, frozen and soft cooked vegetables may be better tolerated.
Fruits
Bland fruit choices for acid reflux includes apples, pears, bananas, melon and peaches. Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, are not well tolerated because the acid can irritate the esophagus.
Breads and Cereals
Low-fat breads and cereals made from refined flour make up part of the bland diet for acid reflux. Low-fat refined-flour breads include white bread and crackers. Refined cereals include oatmeal, farina and low-fiber, cold, ready-to-eat cereals.
Meat and Meat Substitutes
Choose lean meats and low-fat meat substitutes when following a bland diet for acid reflux. High-fat meats can aggravate the reflux. Lean meat choices include skinless poultry, fish, beef eye of round, pork tenderloin and lamb chops. Low-fat meat substitutes for acid reflux include low-fat cheese, tofu and egg substitute.
Sweets and Desserts
Sweets and desserts with less than 3 g of fat per serving tend to be well tolerated on the bland diet for acid reflux. Healthy choices include gelatin, angel food cake, low-fat cookies, pudding and custard. Sweets made with chocolate are not recommended on the bland diet.
Beverages
When you have acid reflux, choose decaffeinated beverages such as water, apple juice, herbal tea and non-citrus juice. Caffeine can irritate the inflamed esophagus, increasing your discomfort. Beverages made with mint, such as peppermint tea, should also be avoided on the bland diet for acid reflux. Mint increases acid reflux.
