Acid reflux is one symptom of GERD, otherwise known as gastroesophageal reflux disease. Patients who suffer from GERD and chronic reflux may experience especially severe symptoms or attacks in response to certain "trigger foods," which can aggravate the digestive system. Whole milk, along with a collection of other fatty and creamy foods, is an especially common reflux trigger.
Explanation
During reflux, the lower esophageal sphincter, sometimes called the LES muscle, irregularly relaxes or weakens when it should not. During that process, a backflow of stomach contents may enter the esophagus and create a burning sensation in the throat and upper chest. In turn, the esophagus becomes inflamed and irritated.
Effects
According to MayoClinic.com, chronic reflux can cause the esophageal lining to erode, producing breathing problems or bleeding. You may also feel nauseous or in pain if you drink whole milk and experience reflux or heartburn shortly afterward. "Whole milk aggravate[s] acid reflux and should be avoided," writes Dr. Frank Jackson of Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology Clinic. Jackson also recommends avoiding creamed vegetables, whole milk-based soups and any desserts made with whole milk.
Nutrition Facts
Whole milk's nutritional profile is largely what makes it a common trigger food. According to the USDA, a cup of whole milk has approximately 150 calories and a notable 8 g fat, 4.5 g of which are saturated. Whole milk also has about 25 mg cholesterol per serving. In contrast, 1 cup of skim milk has only 85 calories, no fat and 5 mg cholesterol.
Alternatives
Dr. Jackson recommends drinking skim, 1 percent or 2 percent milk instead of whole if you regularly suffer from reflux. He also suggests choosing low-fat versions of dairy products that are commonly made with whole milk, such as yogurt and cheese. Non-dairy milks, such as soy milk and rice milk, are also naturally lower in fat than whole milk and consequently are less likely to trigger reflux.
Considerations
Over-the-counter medicines and many prescription medications can offer relief from chronic acid reflux and may even negate effects from trigger foods such as whole milk. Wearing loose clothing, not reclining after meals, eating smaller meals and losing weight can also help. However, such remedies don't always work, and the best option may be to simply avoid whole milk if you know that it is likely to bring on reflux for you. If you do experience chronic symptoms, see your doctor.
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