GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, causes frequent burning sensations in the throat and in the chest. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), GERD is diagnosed if reflux occurs at least three times a week. GERD symptoms can be controlled with medications and lifestyle changes, one of which is to avoid foods that aggravate acid reflux.
Spicy Foods
The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine lists spicy foods as one of the potential causes of some cases of acid reflux. This does not mean food can't be seasoned, it simply means people with acid reflux should avoid certain types of seasoning. These include hot spices (such as chili peppers), as well as garlic and onion. Other spices that can potentially cause acid reflux symptoms to flare up include peppermint and spearmint.
Oily and Fried Foods
Heavy oils should also be avoided by people who have GERD. These include not only foods with high oil and fat contents, but also foods that are deep fried. Fast food choices are convenient, but are often high in fat or fried (such as French fries or burgers). Fried chicken, fried fish and onion rings may all potentially aggravate acid reflux symptoms. If you choose fast foods, stick to grilled meats (such as chicken), and opt for a side of apples instead of fries.
Whole Milk Products
Whole milk products may also cause acid reflux symptoms to flare up, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. These include regular milk, chocolate milk and heavy creams. Whole milk products also include other high fat dairy products, such as some cheeses and pudding. Instead, Jackson Siegelbaum suggests sticking to low fat or non-fat dairy products, such as skim milk and low fat yogurt. Lower fat cheeses may also be easier to digest.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits have a high acidity level and can cause acid reflux symptoms for some people. These include not only oranges and grapefruits, but pineapple as well. If you like lemon and lime in your water, you may want to find another non-citrus way to make your water more palatable. Juices with high acidity should also be avoided, such as orange juice, tomato juice and lemonade.
Tomato Products
Tomatoes are another high acid food that should be avoided by people with GERD. Tomatoes themselves can cause acid reflux symptoms; however, many foods containing tomato products may also cause discomfort for people with GERD. The NDDIC reports that tomato sauces, such as those found in pizza and on spaghetti, are a common culprit of reflux symptoms. Tomato-based salsas should be avoided as well.
Caffeine and Alcohol
Certain types of beverages may also cause acid reflux symptoms in some people. The NDDIC reports that caffeine and alcohol can aggravate GERD symptoms. This includes coffees, teas and some energy drinks. Sodas that contain caffeine (such as cola) can also lead to acid reflux. If you have GERD, you might want to stick to water or other non-caffeinated beverages and make that coffee a decaf.
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