GERD, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition that occurs when stomach contents leak back into the esophagus. When you eat, food travels down the esophagus and through a muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, before reaching the stomach. This muscle acts like a gate and opens to let food into the stomach, and then closes behind it. In some cases, the muscle does not close properly and allows stomach contents to back up into the esophagus. Symptoms of GERD include heartburn, nausea, cough, difficulty swallowing, hiccups, voice changes, regurgitation of food, hoarseness and sore throat. Avoiding certain foods and beverages can help prevent symptoms of GERD.
Spicy Foods
Do not eat spicy foods including black pepper, chili pepper or fresh onion. When eating out, say no to spicy foods including Mexican dishes and Thai dishes that are hot or contain curry. In addition, do not eat any foods that cause you to experience burning or pain of your esophagus.
High-Fat Foods
Avoid foods that are high in fat, and do not eat fried foods such as french fries or greasy foods such as potato chips. When consuming dairy products, do not eat full-fat products and choose low-fat or non-fat instead. Do not eat fatty meats including bacon, sausage, ham or beef and opt for leaner meats such as skinless poultry, fish and pork. Also, prepare foods by baking, broiling or roasting to cut down on fat.
High-Acid Foods
Do not consume foods that are high in acid such as cranberries and citrus fruits including oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes. Also, do not eat tomatoes or tomato-based products such as spaghetti sauce or pizza sauce.
Beverages
Do not drink alcoholic beverages and avoid all caffeinated products including coffee, tea and soda. Do not drink any carbonated beverages or consume any products containing peppermint, spearmint or chocolate. Avoid all citrus juices such as orange juice and lemonade, and do not drink high-acid vegetable juices such as tomato juice.
References
- Medhelp: Foods to Avoid and Eating Behaviors for Acid Reflux
- Cleveland Clinic: GERD or Acid Reflux or Heartburn Overview
- FamilyDoctor.org: Heartburn
- MedlinePlus: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- Treat-Acid-Reflux.com: Five Foods to Avoid for Your Acid Reflux Diet
- University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health: Heartburn, Health Information
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