Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common digestive condition in which the function of the ring of muscle between your esophagus and your stomach is disrupted. The hallmarks of acid reflux are heartburn and indigestion. If these two symptoms occur more than twice a week, this means you have GERD.
Nearaly 20 percent of people in the U.S. have gastroesophageal reflux disease. This disorder is usually long-term and requires treatment and dietary changes. If left ignored, GERD can sometimes result in serious complications.
If you're suffering from heartburn or other symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), your diet is one of the first things your healthcare provider will ask you about. Some foods can worsen symptoms of acid reflux and you are likely to be advised to consume these foods less often or to cut them out of your diet completely.
If your esophagus is damaged by stomach acid, you may experience difficulty swallowing and chronic cough. Having these symptoms is a weighty reason to visit your gastroenterologist. A doctor may recommend certain medications to relieve acid reflux. But the main treatment option for this condition is GERD diet. Dietary changes are the most effective ways to fight mild acid reflux. Here is a list of foods to eat with gastroesophageal reflux disease:
1. Whole grains
High fiber, whole-grains that are rich in fiber are effective at fighting GERD symptoms. Brown rice, oatmeal, and whole grain breads are an excellent source of fiber and might help absorb stomach acid.
2. Veggies
Vegetables contain almost no fat and are low in sugar which helps lower stomach acid levels. Consider eating more broccoli, green beans, asparagus, spinach, and Brussels sprouts.
3. Dairy products
Instead of milk and high-fat dairy products, consume reduced-fat, low-fat, or fat-free milk, yogurt, cheese, or ice cream. They help alleviate heartburn and improve digestion. You can also try non-dairy options such as soy or almond milk, or non-dairy ice cream alternatives.
4. Seeds and nuts
Most nuts and seeds are full of dietary fiber and essential nutrients and might help absorb stomach acid. Choose almonds, cashews, peanuts, chia, pomegranate, and flaxseeds.
5. Egg whites
If you have GERD you should avoid foods rich in fat. Egg whites are a good option for you. But, stay away from egg yolks since they are high in fat and more likely to worsen your symptoms.
6. Ginger
Ginger possesses excellent anti-inflammatory properties and is often used for relieving gastrointestinal issues. You can add ginger to smoothies, soups, stir fry, or other dishes, or tea.
7. Fruits
It’s important to avoid citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruit, as they are high in acids that exacerbate GERD symptoms. Choose fresh, frozen, or canned fruit or fruit juice that you can tolerate well.
8. Lean meats and seafood
Lean meats like chicken or turkey and seafood are low in fat and help improve the symptoms of acid reflux. You can eat them grilled, baked, or poached.
9. Potatoes and other starchy foods
French fries, potato chips, risotto, and pasta with creamy or tomato-based sauces are not your options. Choose baked, boiled, or mashed potatoes, plain pasta or rice, or pasta with a low-fat milk-based sauce.
10. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a superfood that’s extremely beneficial for people with gastroesophageal reflux disease. It’s a whole grain high-fiber food that has been associated with a lower risk of acid reflux. Other fiber options include whole-grain breads and whole-grain rice.
The Bottom Line
Acid reflux can be successfully treated with dietary changes. If you have GERD symptoms you should avoid certain foods and eat in accordance with your doctor’s recommendations. Don’t ignore this problem, since acid reflux can provoke serious complications over time.