Foods high in fiber play an important role in an acid reflux diet by aiding digestion. Fiber digests smoothly through the digestive tract and does not overload the stomach, which requires less acid secretion. This protects you against indigestion or bloating that can trigger acid reflux symptoms, such as heartburn or acid regurgitation, that occur when acidic contents rise back up from the stomach into the esophagus.
Causes
Acid reflux can occur from particular foods or heavy meals. Certain foods may relax a lower esophageal muscle, which does not close tightly after food goes into the stomach. Stomach acid backup can result, causing the burning sensation of heartburn in the upper chest and throat or an acidic taste in the back of your mouth. Foods that weaken the muscle may include high-fat or fried foods, tomato products, citrus fruits, chocolate, caffeine, carbonated beverages or alcohol, but you may have your own specific trigger foods. Large meals overwork the stomach and increase the risk of digestive difficulties to cause acid reflux.
Fruit and Vegetables
Fiber-rich fruits and vegetables help prevent acid reflux. However, avoid citrus fruits and tomatoes if they cause symptoms. Fried vegetables or vegetables with fatty or creamy additives also contribute to acid reflux. Include fresh fruit, such as bananas, apples, berries, peaches, pears and melons, and most fresh vegetables in your diet, Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology advises. Buy canned fruit and vegetables without sugar, syrup or high-fat sauces added.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain high fiber to combat acid reflux. Eat whole-grain bread, cereal and pasta, oatmeal, oat bran, brown rice, barley and popcorn with little or no butter. Whole grains contain more fiber and nutrients than refined grains. The foods may help absorb acid in the stomach because whole grains have a gel-like quality during digestion. Whole grains also contain selenium, an antioxidant that may help protect the esophagus, HealthCentral explains. Frequent acid reflux can lead to bleeding or ulcers over time and increases the risk of Barrett's esophagus, which causes abnormal cell changes in the esophagus. Left untreated, it can result in esophageal cancer.
Dietary Additions
Beans, lentils and nuts, such as almonds, pecans and pistachios, contain high fiber for use as sides or snacks in the diet. A healthy acid reflux diet also includes low-fat or fat-free foods to avoid high fat intake. Protein helps prevent or reduce acid reflux because of its muscle-building properties that may strengthen muscles in the esophagus, the University of Maryland Medical Center notes. Protein, however, may have high saturated fat content. Choose lean meat, poultry without skin, fish and low-fat or nonfat dairy products for protein. For sweets, select low-fat or fat-free versions of cookies and cakes or nonfat candies instead of chocolate.
