Foods Good for Acid Reflux

Acid reflux disease, also known as Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition when the acid in the stomach seeps back into the esophagus and the throat. This causes a lot of discomfort, and leads to symptoms like difficulty in swallowing, chest pain, and heartburn.

There are several causes for acid reflux disease, like improper functioning of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) muscles, irregular eating habits, smoking. Although, there are several treatment methods available for treating this disease, it is possible to alleviate the symptoms and discomfort by following a diet.

In most of the cases, it is found that acid reflux disease is caused due to ever-changing and improper food habits. Having larger and spicy meals, specially at night, can trigger off acid reflux Therefore, one of the easiest remedies is to try to have meals at same time every day. Secondly, larger meals should be avoided, specially at night.

Thirdly, it is also essential to make proper food choices. There are certain foods which when consumed have higher chances of causing acid reflux. These foods, naturally, need to be avoided. On the other hand, certain foods are safe to consume.

The following is a list of good foods to eat for acid reflux. These foods do not cause heartburn, and therefore, can be safely consumed.

Fruits and Vegetables: Vegetables when consumed in limited quantity rarely cause heartburn and acid reflux. Fruits and vegetables are also good for overall health and help in preventing several health disorders. You can safely have baked potato, broccoli, carrots, celery, green beans, and peas. Vegetables should not be fried as it can aggravate acidity.

You can go for fruits like apples, banana (it works for some, while may not work for others), melons, pears, and peaches. Secondly, fruit juices should be avoided as the added sugar content can severe acidity in some cases.

Grains: Low-fat grains like multi-grain, bran, oatmeal, brown or white rice, baked and fat-free cookies, Graham crackers, rice cakes, pretzels, bran muffins, etc., are less likely to cause acid reflux. But, in case you suffer from acid reflux on consuming carbs, avoid them altogether. Secondly, avoid carbs that are hard to digest, like whole grains.

Meat and Dairy: Chicken breast, fish, steak (all without skin), egg white, usually do not cause acid reflux. However, these should be consumed without adding extra fats or seasoning. Marinating or frying meats can cause acid reflux, and hence, should be avoided.

On the other hand, you can go for fat-free dairy options like fat-free cream, soy cheese, goat, or feta cheese, or go for good fats like olive or coconut oil. Make sure to consume them in moderation.

* Most of the foods mentioned above are good to reduce acid reflux and heartburn. However, the diet differs from one person to the other. Therefore, it is recommended to consult the doctor to have a personalized acid reflux diet chart made.

As mentioned before, certain foods trigger off symptoms of acid reflux like heartburn, acidity, etc. It is essential to identify these foods and exclude them from the diet. Following is a list of foods that should be avoided:

• Spicy, fried, and hot food (containing peppers)
• Citrus fruits like lemon, oranges
• Coffee and soda
• Tomatoes, tomato sauce
• Peppermint, chocolates, cheese
• Garlic, onion
• Sausage, bacon, any fried meat
• Ice cream
• Alcohol

As mentioned before, the effect of certain food differs from one individual to the other. Therefore, it is recommended to keep a food diary to check for yourself what foods suit you and what do not. Likewise, you can make changes in your diet.

Making healthy food choice is the key for treating and preventing acid reflux disease. Lastly, it is recommended to make changes in your diet only on consulting the doctor. Take care!

Disclaimer: This story is meant only to provide information. It is not to be used as a substitute for proper medical advice and treatment.