Gastroespohageal reflux disease, or GERD, occurs when digestive juices from the stomach enter the esophagus, causing pain commonly referred to as heartburn. A valve called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, separates the stomach and esophagus. When the valve doesn't close properly, gastric juices can flow back into the esophagus. Reflux frequently occurs after eating certain foods, meaning symptoms can be managed by controlling intake of commonly known trigger foods.
Fatty Foods
Fatty foods cause the pressure of the LES valve to decrease, resulting in a weaker seal. A weak seal means acidic gastric juices can flow from the stomach back up the esophagus, causing the pain known as heartburn. High-fat foods include whole milk, cheese, fried foods, cream-based soups and fatty red meat.
Coffee
The caffeine in coffee can also cause the LES to relax, allowing gastric juices to enter the esophagus. Caffeine stimulates gastric juice production, increasing the amount of acid available to flow into the esophagus. Small amounts of coffee may be tolerable, but large amounts may exacerbate symptoms.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains caffeine and a compound called theobromine. Both substances increase acid reflux and should be avoided.
Alcohol
Alcohol irritates the esophagus and stimulates the production of gastric juices. As with coffee, alcohol in small quantities is tolerable. Alcohol may exacerbate symptoms to an even greater degree when consumed with other GERD-causing foods.
Spicy Foods
Foods such as pepper, chili, and hot sauce can cause a flare up in symptoms for some individuals. Replacing spicy foods and seasonings with milder alternatives may help reduce GERD symptoms.
Citrus
Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits and lemons can aggravate GERD due to their high acidity. Juices containing these fruits can also cause reflux symptoms and should be consumed in limited quantities.
Tomato-based Foods
Foods with tomato bases such as marinara sauce, pizza, Bloody Marys and ketchup can also cause increased GERD symptoms due to the high acidity of the tomato.
Mint
Peppermint and spearmint relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for gastric juices to creep back into the esophagus. Avoid after-dinner mints and drinks containing mint.
