Certain foods reduce or relieve symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. These foods may cure GERD when used in your regular diet over time. However, not everyone experiences complete elimination of symptoms. Acid reflux and heartburn may occur less frequently when you eat the foods regularly and avoid foods that trigger your acid reflux. When you have acid reflux episodes more than two times a week, it indicates GERD, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Over-the-counter and prescription medications also relieve symptoms.
Whole Grains
Whole grains move quickly through the digestive tract to avoid gas or stomach acid buildup, which often results in acid reflux. Whole grains contain selenium, an antioxidant that may prevent cell damage in the esophagus, according to HealthCentral. The frequent acid reflux from GERD can damage the lining of the esophagus over time and lead to esophageal cancer. Whole grain cereal, bread and pasta, oatmeal and brown rice may alleviate GERD.
Lean Protein
GERD patients usually have a weakened esophageal muscle. Protein builds and repairs muscle tissue in the body. The strengthening effect may help reinforce an esophageal muscle to prevent acid reflux, HealthCentral notes.
Acid reflux occurs when the muscle does not close tightly and allows stomach acid backup. Some protein-rich food contains fat, which may encourage acid reflux. Therefore, choose low-fat protein, such as lean meats, poultry without skin, fish and low-fat dairy products. Beef, chicken, eggs, cheese and tuna also contain selenium.
Fruits
Fruits, like whole grains, contain lots of fiber for smooth and rapid digestion to prevent acid reflux. Enjoy apples, melons, peaches, pears, bananas and berries in your GERD diet, Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology suggests. However, avoid citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit and pineapple, if you find they trigger acid reflux. Tomatoes and tomato-based products may also cause heartburn.
Vegetables
Most vegetables work effectively in a GERD diet, but avoid fried or creamy style vegetables. Eat vegetables raw or steamed whenever possible to retain their nutrients. Consume low-fat vegetable soups. Celery or carrot sticks make healthy alternative snacks to sugary foods.
Drinks
Beverages that trigger acid reflux and heartburn may include coffee, tea, carbonated drinks and alcohol. Replace those drinks with fresh fruit juices, except those made with citrus, decaffeinated herbal teas, skim milk or water. Drink a small amount of liquid during mealtime to avoid burdening the stomach and get plenty of liquids throughout the rest of the day.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- HealthCentral: Heartburn Center-Prevention
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Diet
- DietaryFiberFoods.com: Selenium-Food Sources High in Selenium, Health Benefits and Toxicity of Selenium
