More than 15 million Americans experience acid reflux, with symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Reflux is caused by the backup of stomach acids into the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth and the stomach. Acid buildup in the esophagus results in the pain better known as heartburn. Untreated acid reflux can cause inflammation in the esophagus, leading to more severe disorders, including ulcers. Simple dietary changes can help lessen symptoms for many individuals.
Coffee
Individuals with heartburn may want to consider cutting out their daily cup of joe. Because reflux is directly related to stomach acid backup, a logical treatment is to limit acid production. Regular coffee contains high amounts of caffeine, a substance that stimulates stomach cells to secrete acid. Decaffeinated coffee or green tea might be suitable alternatives for those who enjoy a hot beverage.
Carbonated Beverages
Similarly, individuals experiencing symptoms of acid reflux should avoid carbonated beverages containing caffeine. This includes most dark sodas. Instead of regular sodas, acid reflux sufferers can opt for caffeine-free sodas. Most ginger ales and lemon-lime sodas do not contain caffeine.
Fatty Foods
Foods rich in fat, especially fried foods, can also increase symptoms of acid reflux. One cause of acid backup in the esophagus is the failure of the esophageal sphincter, a small muscle that controls movement of food between the esophagus and the stomach. This muscle is less effective after eating high-fat foods. Fatty foods also can delay the movement of food through the digestive tract. This means that food is trapped in the stomach for longer, leaving more time for acid reflux symptoms to appear. Avoiding fatty foods can help limit reflux symptoms.
Alcohol
Alcohol may also worsen symptoms for individuals diagnosed with acid reflux. Alcoholic beverages increase stomach acid production, and should thus be limited. Alcohol also has been shown to loosen the esophageal sphincter, making it easier for acid to back up into the esophagus. Limiting alcoholic drinks will help prevent the events that can lead to reflux symptoms.
Meal Size and Timing
In addition to avoiding the foods listed above, individuals dealing with reflux can help alleviate symptoms by watching when and how much they eat. Instead of eating large meals three times a day, it might be beneficial to consume smaller meals more frequently. This strategy will reduce acid production by the stomach and encourage faster digestion. Snacking before bedtime (2 to 3 hours prior) is also not recommended, as eating and lying down soon after can contribute to acid backup.
