Gastroesophageal reflux laryngitis is a condition in which stomach acid travels back up into your esophagus and throat after eating, causing irritated, inflamed vocal cords. In addition to hoarseness, you may experience bad breath, dry coughing and the sensation of a lump in your throat. In addition to medical treatment, as needed, the University Ear, Nose & Throat, Speech and Hearing Clinic at the University of Mississippi suggests changing your diet for improved symptoms. Seek guidance from your doctor or dietitian beforehand for best results.
Guidelines
For reduced reflux symptoms, the University Ear, Nose & Throat, Speech and Hearing Clinic recommends eating frequent, small meals throughout each day, avoiding foods and beverages that increase stomach acid and not lying down for three hours after eating. Staying well hydrated is also important. Because excessive weight gain increases your risk for acid reflux, your diet should also help you reach or maintain a healthy body weight.
Foods to Limit
Foods that stimulate acid production in your stomach include citrus fruits, tomatoes and peppermint. Alcoholic, caffeinated and carbonated beverages can have similar effects. Fatty foods, such as high-fat dairy products and meats, can worsen irritation and other reflux symptoms by delaying stomach emptying. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests also avoiding refined foods, such as sugary sweets, white bread and enriched pasta, and trans-fatty acids, which are found in pastries, fast food and commercially prepared foods containing hydrogenated vegetable oil.
Helpful Foods
Fortunately, many foods suit a diet for gastroesophageal reflux laryngitis. Foods rich in antioxidants, such as cherries, bell peppers, squash and blueberries, and B-vitamins, such as whole grains, can help minimize your symptoms, according to the UMMC. Whole grains, fruits and vegetables also provide valuable amounts of fiber, which promotes appetite control. Healthy oils, such as canola and olive, provide nutritious fat alternatives to butter, margarine and high-fat cheese. Cold-water fish, such as mackerel, herring, salmon and flounder provide omega-3 fatty acids -- healthy fats that may help reduce inflammation.
Supplements
Dietary supplements may provide useful options, particularly if you have difficulty meeting your nutrient needs through food alone. Types that may help manage chronic acid reflux include fish oil, which provides omega-3 fatty acids, a basic multi-vitamin and probiotics -- beneficial bacteria that may help restore bacterial balance in your digestive tract. To avoid side effects and drug interactions, seek approval from your doctor before using supplements of any kind.
