Raw food may relieve acid reflux because it has low-fat content and does not contain ingredients used in cooking. Symptoms that trigger acid reflux vary among people, but common culprits include fatty and fried foods and tomato-based products, such as sauces and pizza. Acid reflux diets often recommend eating plenty of fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains to reduce or eliminate symptoms for long-term protection. Keep a food diary for a week to identify foods that trigger your symptoms.
Raw Food Diets
Some people who practice raw food diets do not eat animal or dairy products. They may consume uncooked, unprocessed and unpasteurized foods and dairy items. Views of a raw food diet may differ. A raw food diet may require taking dietary supplements to meet your nutritional needs. You should consult with your doctor if considering a strict raw food diet for acid reflux. Raw food diets also include meal plans that have mostly nutritious, raw foods.
Choosing Foods
Raw foods generally include fresh or dried fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, seeds and nuts. Certain raw foods worsen problems for people with gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, which occurs from frequent acid reflux. Acid reflux may cause difficulty swallowing for some people. They may need to avoid vegetables with skins, pasta, doughy bread and tough meats, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Triggers
Citrus fruit and juices, such as orange, grapefruit, lemon and pineapple, and tomatoes may aggravate acid reflux because of acidic contents. Acid reflux diets usually list these foods among the items to avoid. Foods that trigger acid reflux relax an esophageal muscle that normally contracts after food enters the stomach to prevent acid backup. A relaxed muscle does not shut tightly and allows stomach acid to rise back up into the esophagus. The burning sensation of heartburn in your upper chest and throat may occur along with a bitter taste in the back of your mouth.
Acid Reflux Diet
Fresh noncitrus fruits and raw vegetables usually aid an acid reflux diet. Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology recommends bananas, peaches, pears, apples, berries and melons in a diet for GERD patients. It advises against fried or creamy style vegetables because the added fat may trigger acid reflux symptoms. Whole grains contain more fiber and nutrients than refined grains. Whole grains aid in digestion and may soak up excess acid in the stomach to lower your risk of acid reflux. Whole grains include bread, pasta, high-fiber cereal, brown rice, oatmeal and oat bran. Acid reflux diets also include meat and dairy products, but only low-fat versions. Lean meat, skinless poultry, fish and low-fat or nonfat dairy items may decrease the risk of acid reflux because of low-fat content.
