A hole in the diaphragm, known as the hiatus, may weaken and grow to allow a portion of the stomach to squeeze through and move up into the chest cavity. A hiatus hernia, also called a hiatal hernia, results. The condition commonly occurs in middle age. It may develop from heredity, obesity or straining during physical activity. Symptoms include difficulty in swallowing and frequent heartburn. An acid reflux diet helps to alleviate symptoms. In rare cases, doctors may recommend surgery to repair the muscle tissue.
Muscle Dysfunction
Acid reflux occurs in hiatus hernia patients because a lower esophageal muscle also moves above the diaphragm, located between the stomach and the chest. The muscle normally closes after food enters the stomach to prevent backup of stomach contents. The weakened muscle does not shut properly and allows acid reflux to occur. Acidic contents flow back up into the esophagus and cause the heartburn sensation felt in the chest and throat. You may also experience a sour taste from acid reflux.
Stop Triggers
Recommendations usually include avoiding foods and beverages that cause acid reflux, according to Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. High-fat meals and fried foods can relax the esophageal muscle and also slow down digestion, producing excess acid secretion, to increase the risk of heartburn. Other items that may result in heartburn include coffee, chocolate, tomato products, citrus fruits, alcohol, mint and carbonated drinks. You can reduce heartburn by avoiding these or other foods that cause your symptoms. Sticking to several small meals during the day instead of heavy meals makes digestion easier on the stomach to avoid acid reflux.
Fruits, Vegetables and Grains
Fiber foods aid digestion to prevent heartburn. Although citrus fruits and tomatoes may trigger heartburn, other fruits, such as bananas, apples, peaches and pears, digest smoothly in the stomach to avoid digestive problems. Try to eat fresh or steamed vegetables whenever possible. Fiber-rich whole grains help digestion and may absorb excess stomach acid. Eat whole-grain or whole-wheat bread, cereal and pasta. Other whole-grain sources include brown rice, oatmeal, oat bran and barley.
Reduce Fat Intake
Low-fat foods help hiatus hernia patients. Too much fat intake can disrupt digestion and cause acid reflux. Some foods with fat contain protein that can strengthen the esophageal muscle. In these cases, eat moderate portions of lean meats, poultry and fish. Remove skin from chicken or turkey and trim fat from meats when you prepare your meals. Replace whole-milk products with low-fat or nonfat milk and dairy foods. Focus on low-fat or fat-free sweets and snacks, but try substituting with bananas, apples, celery or carrot sticks by keeping them available.
References
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Hiatus Hernia
- McKinley Health Center: The GERD Diet
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease and Heartburn --- Prevention
