Acid reflux causes a backup of stomach contents into the esophagus often after eating. The burning pain in the upper chest and throat from heartburn may result. Sometimes you experience an acidic or bitter taste in the back of the mouth from reflux. Practicing a regular diet with foods that protect you from acid reflux may reduce or get rid of your symptoms. Consult a doctor if you have frequent acid reflux. Medication, along with a recommended diet, can relieve the problem.
Trigger Diet
Avoiding the foods that trigger acid reflux discomfort may work effectively in your daily diet if you experience moderate bouts of heartburn. It may take time to discover the foods that result in symptoms. Remember the foods you have eaten after an episode of acid reflux. You can keep a food diary and write down the foods you consume, the time of the meal and the severity of symptoms. People react differently to certain foods. Common triggers include fatty or fried foods, tomato products, citrus fruits and juices, chocolate, mints, carbonated beverages, caffeinated drinks, and alcohol. You may have your own particular triggers.
GERD Diet
Acid reflux often occurs when an esophageal muscle relaxes after food enters the stomach, allowing acidic contents to rise back up into the esophagus. Chronic acid reflux indicates gastroesophageal reflux disease. Frequent acid reflux can weaken the esophageal muscle and irritate the lining of the esophagus. A GERD diet avoids high-fat meals and fried foods that decrease pressure on the muscle and delay stomach emptying that increases reflux occurrence. The diet emphasizes smaller meals. Large meals slow down digestion, making the stomach produce excess stomach acid. Lowering fat intake also helps you maintain a healthy weight. Excess pounds contribute to acid reflux by putting pressure on the abdomen. Foods in the diet include lean meats, skinless chicken, low-fat or fat-free dairy products and snacks, whole grains, fruits and vegetables.
Fiber and Protein Diet
High-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, help avoid digestive problems that increase the risk of acid reflux. Avoid citrus fruits, which may have acidic reactions. Whole-grain foods contain the mineral selenium, which may protect the lining of the esophagus to prevent further damage. Whole-grain breads, cereal and pasta, oatmeal, and brown rice may reduce or prevent acid reflux. Lean meats, poultry without skin, fish and low-fat or fat-free dairy products contain protein, which builds muscles and may strengthen the esophageal muscle.
