Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition in which acids from the stomach and/or bile seeps into the esophagus--the tube by which the food you chew travels into your belly. Those acids aggravate the tissues inside the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation known as heartburn. While the foods you eat don't cause GERD, they can certainly make an uncomfortable situation even worse.
Acidic Foods
Anything acidic can exacerbate GERD symptoms, causing more acid to flow into the esophagus and cause irritation and heartburn. Citrus fruits and juices (oranges, lemons and grapefruit) are high in acid and can aggravate GERD. Tomatoes are also high in acid, says the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, so any tomato-based products (including ketchup, tomato sauce or tomato paste) should also be avoided to keep GERD under control.
Beverages and Seasonings
Alcohol and caffeine are major culprits that aggravate GERD, says the NDDIC, so be careful about any beverages that contain those ingredients. Common spices, seasonings and flavorings for your favorite dishes, including onions and garlic, also aggravate GERD. Mint and anything with mint flavoring also worsen the condition.
Fats and Sweets
Any foods that are high in fat or are fried and greasy can cause a GERD flare-up and uncomfortable symptoms. And although chocolate may be a favorite dessert, it's known to increase GERD symptoms and discomfort.
