Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a common condition in which the lower part of your esophagus relaxes at inappropriate times, allowing acidic stomach contents to flow upward, routinely after eating. This process, known as acid reflux, can trigger heartburn, nausea, abdominal discomfort and hoarseness. Treatment may involve medications, surgery and lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and limiting foods that worsen your symptoms. Fortunately, many breakfast foods suit a GERD-friendly diet.
Guidelines
The basic components of a nutritious breakfast, according to MayoClinic.com, include whole grains, lean protein and fruits or vegetables. Your breakfast meal may also contain a source of healthy fat. To prevent reflux and other GERD symptoms, incorporate foods you tolerate well and take note of and avoid foods that exacerbate your condition.
Optimal Foods
Consuming antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, tomatoes, cherries and squash, may help reduce GERD symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Berries, squash and whole grain foods, such as oatmeal and 100 percent whole grain bread, provide rich amounts of fiber -- an indigestible form of carbohydrate that promotes appetite control and digestive health. Managing your appetite is particularly important if you carry excess body weight, which can worsen GERD symptoms. Lean protein sources include egg whites, tofu, low-fat dairy products and fish. For healthy fats, known as omega-3 fatty acids, which may reduce inflammation, consume walnuts, flax seeds or cold-water fish, such as salmon.
Problem Foods
Foods affect people with GERD differently. Common symptom triggers, however, include fatty foods, such as bacon, high-fat cheese, whole milk and butter, and acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits, orange juice, tomato juice and coffee. For improved symptoms, the UMMC also recommends avoiding refined foods, such as white bread and bagels, low-fiber cereals and sugary pastries.
Sample Meals
One healthy, balanced breakfast meal MayoClinic.com suggests includes a whole wheat sandwich filled with lean meat, low-fat cheese and as many vegetables, such as lettuce, bell peppers and cucumbers, as you like. Other options might include a fruit smoothie prepared with blueberries, skim milk, oats for added fiber and ground flax seeds for healthy fats, or an egg white and vegetable omelet served with a whole grain English muffin or toast. For a non-acidic alternative to coffee, drink green or herbal tea. To guard against symptom flareups, stick to moderate-sized portions, eat slowly and avoid bending over or lying down after eating.
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