Gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) is also commonly called heartburn or acid reflux. The term reflux is used because in GERD sufferers the muscle connecting the upper stomach to the esophagus does not function properly. Because of this, partially digested food and hydrochloric acid can back up or "reflux" into the esophagus. The lining of the esophagus is too sensitive for such acidic substances and a burning sensation results. A diet for GERD sufferers, therefore, is low in acidic foods and high in foods that can soothe delicate tissues. It also contains mostly foods that can be digested quickly to reduce the chances of large particles re-entering the esophagus.
Vegetable Juices
Vegetable juices and green juices such as wheatgrass are alkaline so they can help neutralize the acid in the stomach. Green vegetables are also high in vitamin K, which had been shown to help repair damage to the gastrointestinal tract, according to the book "Prescription for Natural Cures". Cabbage juice is especially effective, as cabbage is high in glutamine, an amino acid important for gastrointestinal health.
Papaya and Pineapple
Papaya and pineapple are both high in enzymes that aid digestion, says Phyllis A. Balch, CNC. These fruits can be eaten with meals to help aid the digestion of other foods. These enzymes are also available in supplement form if finding fresh papaya or pineapple is an issue.
Aloe Vera Juice
Aloe vera juice can soothe the esophagus and is thought to help reduce the secretion of stomach acid, says Arthur J. Roberts M.D. Substitute chamomile tea can, which also be soothing to the esophagus, if aloe vera juice is not available,
Rice and Other Whole Grains
The fiber in whole grains can help move food through the digestive system more efficiently, hopefully reducing the chance of food particles moving back into the esophagus. Whole grains like oats can also absorb some of the acid in the stomach.
Yogurt
The presence of beneficial bacteria in the gut can aid digestion and protect against infection, such as H. Pylori, that can contribute to GERD, according to "Prescription for Natural Cures". Plain yogurt and kefir are excellent sources of these bacteria. Supplemental probiotics can be used as a source of beneficial bacteria if dairy is an issue because of food allergies.
Tips
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, peppermint, spicy foods, carbonation, citrus, raw onion, garlic and acidic foods like tomato. All of these can contribute to the burning feeling associated with GERD.
Chew your food thoroughly. Because one of the issues with GERD is the food particles backing up into the esophagus, it is important to chew food thoroughly so that it can be digested more quickly.
References
- Prescription for Natural Cures; James F. Balch, M.D. and Mark Stengler, N.D.; 2004
- Prescription for Nutritional Healing; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2006
- Nutraceuticals; Arthur J. Roberts M.D. and Mary E. O'Brien, M.D.; 2001
