Discomfort from a hiatus hernia, also called a hiatal hernia, usually comes from acid reflux symptoms that occur more frequently due to this condition. With a hiatus hernia, an upper part of the stomach protrudes through a hole, or hiatus, in the diaphragm up into the chest. Weakened muscle tissue in the stomach and esophagus from the hiatus hernia may result in frequent acid reflux. Foods that help reduce acid reflux make up a suitable diet for a person with a hiatus hernia.
Dietary Adjustments and Medicine
Treatment for hiatus hernia usually involves reducing or relieving reflux symptoms. Frequent acid reflux may lead to complications such as esophagitis, an inflammation of the esophagus. Medications help neutralize stomach acid or strengthen esophageal muscles. Diet modification, starting with the avoidance of foods that trigger acid reflux, helps provide long-term protection. Certain foods relax esophageal muscles that normally prevent stomach acid backup. You may have specific foods that trigger your symptoms, but common culprits include high-fat foods, tomato-based products, citrus fruits, onions, chocolate, caffeine and alcohol. Eating smaller, more frequent meals rather than three heavy meals during the day aids digestion to avoid reflux.
Low-Fat Choices
Although you need to reduce intake of high-fat foods, you can still enjoy lean meat with visible fat trimmed off, skinless chicken or turkey, fish and low-fat or nonfat dairy products. The protein from these foods may help strengthen your esophageal muscles to reduce acid reflux. Protein builds and repairs muscle tissue. A suitable diet for hiatus hernia may include sweets and desserts, but limit them to low-fat or fat-free snacks and nonfat candies. Include sweets and desserts that have no more than 3 g fat per serving, according to Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain the mineral selenium, which may combat damage to the esophagus, HealthCentral points out. Frequent acid reflux over time can damage cells in the esophageal lining and cause Barrett's esophagus, a disease that may result in esophageal cancer. Whole grains also have a gel-like quality during digestion, which may absorb excess acid in the stomach. Include whole-grain bread, high-fiber cereal, whole-grain pasta, brown rice, oatmeal and barley in your meals. Whole grains have more nutrients and fiber than refined grains.
Fruits and Vegetables
High-fiber fruits and vegetables provide your body with smooth digestion to help prevent acid reflux. However, citrus fruits and tomatoes have an acidic content that may trigger acid reflux in some people. Enjoy peaches, pears, bananas, apples, melons and berries. Include vegetables in most meals, but avoid fried or creamy-style vegetables, which may encourage acid reflux. A low-fat diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat protein can aid in weight loss. Maintaining a healthy weight also provides protection from acid reflux for hiatus hernia patients.
