Gastroesophageal reflux disease, commonly called GERD, is a serious disorder that can affect the health of your esophagus. Acid reflux, or heartburn, occurs when the contents of your stomach enter your esophagus. Unlike occasional heartburn, GERD exists when you experience persistent acid reflux that occurs more frequently than two times each week. Your doctor may refer to your GERD condition in terms of stages.
Stage III GERD
The GERD stages refer to separate stages of management practices and pharmacological therapies for this disease. Stage I requires minimal lifestyle modifications while Stage V requires invasive surgery to treat GERD. The standard pharmacological therapy for Stage III may include various treatments, such as a proton pump inhibitor or prokinetic agents. Dietary modifications can help with all stages of GERD and can help you avoid even mild cases of heartburn.
Foods to Avoid
Certain foods have a high likelihood of contributing to heartburn and acid reflux. These foods include garlic, onions, caffeinated drinks, alcohol, citrus fruits, chocolate, spicy foods, mint flavoring and foods that contain tomatoes, such as salsa and pizza sauce. In addition to the types of foods you eat, the amount and time you eat are also important factors in managing GERD symptoms. Eating heavy meals, especially before lying down, can increase your risk of acid reflux. Smoking, obesity and pregnancy may also play a role in the occurrence of heartburn.
Bland Diet
In addition to limiting specific foods, your doctor may suggest you consume a bland diet receiving treatment for your Stage III GERD. Eating a bland diet can help treat various digestive disorders, such as ulcers, gas and heartburn. A bland diet includes foods that are low soft and low in fiber. Foods from a bland diet include custard, lean cuts of soft meat, soup, eggs, creamy peanut butter, fruit juice, cooked vegetables and low fat dairy products. Breads and cereals that contain refined grains are suitable for most bland diet meal plans.
Considerations
Most people with GERD experience some relief while practicing lifestyle modifications, making dietary changes important during all stages of this disease. Other modifications that can also help with your GERD symptoms include raising the head of your bed, reducing your consumption of alcohol and giving up your cigarette habit. Talk to your doctor before making any major changes to your diet, especially if you have other chronic health conditions.
