Carbohydrates reduce or prevent acid reflux symptoms by aiding digestion and pushing fatty substances through the digestive tract. This helps avoid stomach acid backup that results in acidic contents rising into the esophagus. Acid reflux causes heartburn, the burning or painful feeling in your upper chest and throat. You may also experience a sour or bitter taste in the back of your mouth from acid backup.
Acid Reflux Causes
Acid reflux arises for several reasons. Certain foods may relax an esophageal muscle, which normally opens when contents enter the stomach. A relaxed muscle does not contract properly and allows stomach acid backup, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Foods that relax the muscle vary among people, but common offenders include fried or fatty foods, tomato-based products, citrus fruits, chocolate, carbonated or caffeinated drinks and alcohol. Heavy meals increase the risk of acid reflux when the stomach produces excess acid for digestion. Obesity and pregnancy increase symptoms because of pressure on the abdomen. Hiatal hernia patients experience frequent acid reflux from weakened muscle tissue in the stomach and esophagus.
Fruits, Vegetables, Grains
Carbohydrate-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, work effectively in an acid reflux diet. However, some people cannot tolerate citrus fruits and tomatoes because of the acidic content. Whole grains include bread, pasta, cereal, brown rice, barley and oatmeal. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables contain fiber to help the digestive process and lessen the chance of acid reflux symptoms.
Soluble and Insoluble Fiber
Soluble fiber binds with fats and moves them through the digestive system. Dried beans and peas, nuts, barley, flaxseed, apples and carrots contain soluble fiber, which converts to a gel-like quality during digestion to absorb excess acid. Insoluble fiber moves bulk through the intestines. Insoluble fiber includes whole-wheat products, wheat bran, green beans, dark green leafy vegetables and fruit or vegetable skins. Fiber-rich carbohydrates also provide you with a full feeling without the digestive problems associated with high-fat foods. You can enjoy plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and satisfy your appetite.
Dietary Considerations
Other foods in an acid reflux diet usually include low-fat items, such as lean meat, skinless poultry, fish and low-fat or nonfat dairy products. Reducing your fat intake decreases the risk of acid reflux, which is why carbohydrates work well for long-term protection against symptoms. You can enjoy sweets and snacks as long as you limit them to 3 g fat per serving, according to the acid reflux diet from Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology. Consult with your doctor if you have frequent acid reflux for dietary and medical advice. Over-the-counter and prescription medication can help reduce stomach acid production.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD); May 2007
- HealthCastle.com: Soluble vs Insoluble Fiber
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Diet
- Harvard School of Public Health: Carbohydrates: Good Carbs Guide the Way
