Laryngopharyngeal reflux, or LPR, happens when the band of muscle at the top of your stomach functions poorly, allowing stomach acid to flow up into your esophagus after eating. Common symptoms include excessive mucus, frequent throat clearing, hoarseness, heartburn, chronic coughing and sleep difficulties. Medical treatments for LPR include medications to reduce stomach acid and, in some cases, surgery. Dietary changes can also help to minimize your symptoms. For best results, consult your doctor before altering your diet
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants such as vitamin C and betacarotene -- nutrients that support your body's ability to resist and heal from illnesses. Although antioxidant-rich foods can help to reduce heartburn and acid reflux, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, highly acidic fruits, such as citrus fruits, pineapples, and grapes, can make your symptoms worse. Useful antioxidant-rich alternatives include cantaloupe, mangos, papaya, blueberries and cherries. All fresh vegetables, without vinegar or high-fat ingredients, are acceptable.
Whole Grains
Because whole grains contain all original parts of the grain, they supply more antioxidants and fiber than refined grains. Fiber-rich foods promote appetite control, which can help ease the process of weight management. For reduced heartburn and acid reflux, the UMMC recommends avoiding refined foods such as white bread, enriched pasta and sweets, and emphasizing vitamin-B-rich foods, like whole grains. Nutritious options include 100 percent whole grain breads and cereals, old fashioned oats, popcorn, brown rice, wild rice and barley.
Protein-Rich Foods
Protein-rich foods support positive immune function and fullness between meals. Fatty protein sources, like whole milk, high-fat cheeses and red meat, can delay stomach emptying and increase inflammation, leading to worsened LPR symptoms. For these reasons, the Loyola University Health System recommends opting instead for low-fat dairy products, lean red meat, poultry and fish. Beans, lentils, split peas and egg whites are also low in fat and protein-rich.
Fats
Dietary fats help your body absorb fat-soluble nutrients, like vitamins A, D and K, provide energy and enhance the texture and flavor of foods. Consume moderate amounts of fats, relying primarily on healthy, unsaturated sources. Valuable options, according to the UMMC, include vegetable and olive oil. Additional healthy fat sources include avocados, oily fish such as salmon and mackerel, nuts and seeds. Fat sources that can increase inflammation include butter, stick margarine, shortening and heavy cream-bases sauces.
Protein provides amino acids -- the building blocks of lean tissue.
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