Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, causes frequent heartburn and acid regurgitation, a bitter or sour taste in the back of the mouth from acid reflux. Having acid reflux and heartburn more than twice a week indicates GERD, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Over-the-counter or prescription medication can relieve or reduce symptoms. In severe cases, doctors may recommend surgery that strengthens an esophageal muscle to help prevent acid backup. A diet for severe GERD can alleviate symptoms and decrease the frequency of acid reflux.
Common Triggers
GERD occurs because of a weakened esophageal muscle that allows stomach acid backup after eating, leading to the painful, burning sensation in the chest and throat. Certain foods relax the muscle and trigger acid reflux. Common offenders include fatty and fried foods, tomato products, garlic, onions, citrus fruits, chocolate, mint, caffeine and alcohol. Dietary changes reduce symptoms for GERD and for heartburn in general. GERD treatment also requires a physician's advice on medication and lifestyle changes.
Eating Patterns
Along with eliminating known irritants, a GERD diet consists of avoiding high-fat and large meals, according to the McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Fatty, heavy meals decrease pressure on the esophageal muscle and delay stomach emptying. When the stomach has large amounts of food to digest, it produces more acid secretion, which increases the risk of acid reflux.
Low-Fat Substitutes
Replace high-fat foods with low-fat varieties, suggests Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Substitute skim or low-fat milk for whole milk. Choose low-fat and fat-free dairy foods over whole-milk products. Lean meat, skinless chicken or turkey and fish provide you with protein without the high-fat intake of sausage, bacon, cold cuts and other fatty meats. Protein may also strengthen the esophageal muscle because of its muscle-building properties, notes HealthCentral.com. Eat low-fat sweets and desserts, equal to 3 g or less fat per serving.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide fiber, vitamins, minerals and quick digestion. Avoid citrus fruits, including oranges and grapefruit, which may have an acidic reaction. Enjoy peaches, pears, bananas, apples and melons. Vegetables help avoid acid reflux except when fried or prepared cream-style. Fruits and fruit juices add to healthy breakfasts. Have vegetable soups for lunch, or add steamed vegetables to your dinners.
Grains
Whole grains also digest smoothly in the stomach and may provide protection for the esophagus to prevent damage caused by frequent acid reflux, according to HealthCentral.com. Whole-grain cereals, whole-wheat toast or oatmeal can enhance breakfasts and any meal or snack during the day. Choose whole-grain buns and rolls or brown rice for lunch and dinner.
