GERD, which stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease, occurs when acid that normally stays within the stomach backs up into the esophagus. In severe cases, the acid can cause the lining of the esophagus to become inflamed or even damaged. While certain foods do not prevent GERD, there are foods that can trigger an attack. Changing your diet may not prevent GERD, but it may help control symptoms.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are acidic so they may trigger symptoms in some patients. Each case is unique, and it can take time to find personal trigger foods. Keeping a food and symptom journal will help identify problem foods. Start by eliminating citrus fruits to see if symptoms subside. Then slowly add them back into the diet to see if symptoms flare. Some patients may need to avoid citrus fruits altogether; while others can eat small amounts.
Fried Foods
The American College of Gastroenterology, suggests that patients with GERD limit or avoid foods that are fried or greasy as they can also trigger symptoms. Fatty foods take a long time to digest, thus causing excessive acid production. The excess acid may stay in the stomach for longer periods. Some patients may find that dietary changes alone can alleviate symptoms, while others may need medication. Along with limiting trigger foods, it is often helpful to avoid lying down or going to bed for at least two hours after eating to decrease the amount of stomach acid that can regurgitate.
Chocolate and Caffeine
Chocolate and caffeine should also be avoided when living with GERD. While more research is needed, it appears that substances in chocolate and caffeine can cause a loss of muscle tone in the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES muscle. This muscle is responsible for closing the opening between the stomach and esophagus after food passes through. If this muscle becomes weak; acid can back up.
Mint and Tomato Products
The goal of a diet for GERD is to reduce symptoms and prevent complications. Most patients with GERD need to follow a special diet for a lifetime to prevent a recurrence. The University of Illinois recommends limiting intake of mint and tomato-based products as both are known triggers. As with all of the above foods, each patient has a personal tolerance and there is no one size fits all diet. In addition to limiting personal trigger foods, it may also be helpful to eat small meals throughout the day.
Weight Control
When living with GERD, it is essential to maintain a healthy weight. A large stomach can place pressure on the LES and inhibit it from closing properly. A physician or registered dietitian can help form a safe weight loss plan if necessary.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- American College of Gastroenterology: The Word on GERD
- The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: Diet and Lower Esophageal Sphincter
- University of Illinois McKinley Health Center: The GERD Diet
