GERD, also called gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition caused by weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, also called the LES. When you eat, food passes down your esophagus until it reaches the LES. Prior to entering your stomach, food passes through the LES opening, which functions like a gate opening to let food into your stomach and then closing behind it. When this muscle becomes weak, it does not close properly and stomach acids splash up into the esophagus causing symptoms, such as burning, chest pain, cough and hoarseness. Avoiding certain foods can relieve symptoms and reduce episodes of reflux.
Meats
Avoid meats that are fatty or highly seasoned, such as sausage, bacon and cold cuts. Eat lean meats, such as fish, and skinless chicken and turkey. Trim all meats of excess fat and prepare them in a low-fat fashion, such as baking, broiling or roasting.
Grains and Starches
Consume all grains, breads and starches as long as they do not cause symptoms of esophageal burning or other discomfort. Do not eat any breads or grain dishes that are high in fat or contain whole milk.
Fruits and Vegetables
Avoid citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, lemons, limes and pineapple, which may cause further irritation to your esophagus. In addition, tomatoes and tomato-based products such as spaghetti and pizza may also cause further inflammation. Eat fruits including apples, berries, peaches and pears and avoid creamy style vegetables and any other fruits or vegetables that cause you discomfort. Your doctor may choose to add a daily vitamin C supplement to make up for your lack of citrus intake.
Dairy Products
Avoid all whole milk products and milk products containing chocolate. When consuming dairy, choose nonfat and low-fat varieties of milk, yogurt and cheese. Products that are high in fat stay in your stomach longer and contribute to excess stomach acid production.
Beverages
Do not consume any beverages containing caffeine. Avoid coffee, tea, energy drinks and caffeinated sodas. Drink herbal teas that do not contain mint, juices that do not contain citrus, and water. Also, do not drink alcoholic beverages. Alcohol use may cause weakening of the LES and increase episodes of reflux.
Miscellaneous Foods
Consume fats and oils in small amounts and do not consume any products containing chocolate. When choosing desserts, eat products that are nonfat or low-fat to avoid triggering episodes of reflux.
