Reflux Diet

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Diet (GERD)

Symptoms associated with acid reflux or GERD can be caused by a number of factors, including certain foods that may cause the lower esophageal muscle to relax, causing GERD. A diet designed to prevent or reduce acid reflux is usually easy to follow. The basic food groups of cereals, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and meats can be eaten with only a few limitations.

The following recommendations may be helpful in reducing symptoms:

• Stop using tobacco in all forms. Nicotine weakens still lower esophageal muscle.
• Avoid chewing gum and hard candy. They increase the amount of swallowed air which, in turn, leads to belching and reflux.
• Do not lie down immediately after eating. Avoid late evening snacks or large meals.
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing and bending over after eating.
• Eat small, frequent portions of food and snacks if needed.
• Lose weight if overweight. Obesity leads to increased reflux.
• Elevate the head of the bed 6 to 8 inches to prevent reflux while sleeping. Extra pillows, by themselves, are not very helpful.

The following foods aggravate acid reflux and should be avoided:

• fatty or fried foods
• whole milk
• chocolates
• oils
• peppermint and spearmint creamed foods or soups
• most fast foods

The following foods irritate an inflamed lower esophagus and may need to be limited or avoided:

• citrus fruit and juices
• alcohol
• caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks.

Spicy or acidic foods may not be tolerated by some individuals and may need to be avoided.

Reflux Diet

Foods that contribute to gas production

Legumes

Most beans, especially dried beans and peas, baked beans, soybeans, lima beans

Milk, milk products

Milk, ice cream, and cheese

Vegetables

Cabbage, broccoli, Brussel sprouts, cauliflower, cucumbers, sauerkraut, kohlrabi, asparagus

Root Vegetables

Potatoes, rutabaga, turnips, radishes, onions

Fruits

Prunes, apricots, apples, raisins, bananas

Fatty Foods

Pan-fried or deep-fried foods, fatty meats, rich cream sauces and gravies, pastries (white fatty foods are not carbohydrates, they too can contribute to intestinal gas)

Liquids

Carbonated beverages, certain medications