Acid reflux usually doesn’t just pop up out of nowhere, typically it is the end result of something we eat. So, if you suffer from the heartburn and discomfort associated with acid reflux or GERD (gastro-esophageal reflux disease) here are some diet tips that may help you get some relief.
Do not eat a huge amount at one sitting. As an alternative to eating three large meals a day, try eating five small meals instead. It makes sense that if you repeatedly overstuff food into your body you will make it more possible that food and other gastric juices will back up (or reflux) into your lower esophagus. The smaller meals that you will be eating should be about one half the size of what a typical dinner or lunch is now.
Which foods will have the least likelihood of causing trouble? Moderate portions of lean meat, chicken and fish can be trusted BUT they cannot be prepared using excessive oils, grease or butter. Multigrain bread, cereal and rice are safe. There are some fruits that should be avoided, namely tomatoes and citrus fruits–both are usually among the most prevalent acid reflux food. Both have high acid content and will turn even the mildest symptom into a full scale eruption in your stomach. Bananas and apples are generally fine. The following are good vegetable choices: green peas; cabbage; and green beans.
Sometimes what you eat is important, other times what you do immediately after eating is even more important. Never lay down right after you eat. If you are susceptible to acid reflux and have a weak lower esophageal sphincter, laying down increases the odds that acids will leak out of your stomach. Stay seated after your meal, enjoy some conversation with your dinner partners. It just may be the most important thing you can do to control your acid reflux.