Acid reflux, also known as gastroespohageal reflux disease (GERD), is caused by eating foods that irritate the esophageal lining and by eating too much food at one time. Both of these actions can trigger the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, allowing food and digestive fluids to reflux into the esophagus, causing acid damage to its lining. Living with acid reflux limits what you can and can't eat. If GERD progresses without addressing a treatment plan or making dietary changes, serious complications can arise, such as Barrett's esophagus and esophageal cancer. It is important to educate yourself about what foods trigger acid reflux so that you can adjust your diet accordingly.
Fats
Foods that are high in fat and low in fiber stimulate the stomach to produce bile, and therefore trigger reflux symptoms. Animal fats can slow down the digestive process, preventing the stomach from emptying as rapidly as it ordinarily should, reports the Life Extension website.
Drinks
Eliminate all drinks containing caffeine, as well as alcohol and highly acidic drinks like orange and tomato juices. Upon consuming any of these drinks, the stomach produces excess acids which damage the lining of the esophagus when they back up.
Sweets
GERD may be greatly increased after eating spearmint, peppermint and mint. These foods relax the esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acids and food to reflux into the esophagus. Unfortunately for chocolate lovers, the esophageal sphincter also relaxes after eating chocolate and cocoa.
Tomatoes
Like the majority of citrus fruits, tomatoes are extremely acidic and can therefore aggravate GERD. Avoid all tomato products, including juices and tomato-based sauces.
Spices and Condiments
The University of Wisconsin School of Medicine recommends eliminating hot and spicy foods, including chilies, hot sauces and peppers. These foods stimulate the production of excess stomach acid, and are known to damage the esophageal lining when they reflux.
Member Comments