Acid Reflux Diet
Acid Reflux Diet – What are the Best Foods to Eat and What Foods Should You Avoid
When you finally realize that it is time to begin an acid reflux diet to improve your health and
discomfort, it can be a tasty and delicious change. It doesn’t have to be a bland, boring GERD diet.
Here are a Few Nutritional Facts You Should be Aware of:
Diets which are designed to prevent or help reduce acid reflux are usually easy to follow. These
basic food groups are:
* Vegetables
* Cereals
* Fruits
* Meats
They can be eaten with only a few limitations, and this type of diet generally meets all of the
Recommended Dietary Allowances of the National Research Council. A vitamin C supplement maybe needed if you do not tolerate foods such as tomatoes, oranges and grapefruit.
Here is a list of suggestions which may help with your acid reflux diet:
1. Foods that may aggravate acid reflux, and should be avoided:
* Peppermint and spearmint
* Fatty or fried foods
* Dairy products such as whole milk
* Oils
* Any creamed foods or soup
* Chocolate
* Fast foods from restaurants
2. Foods which may need to be limited or avoided:
* Citrus fruits, including grapefruit, orange, pineapple, tomato and juices
* Coffee, both regular and decaffeinated
* Soft drinks that are caffeinated
* Tea
* Other beverages which contain caffeine
3. Some individuals may not tolerate spicy or acidic foods
4. You should stop using tobacco products in all forms because nicotine weakens the lower esophageal muscle.
5. Lose any extra pounds if you are overweight. Obesity may lead to increased reflux symptoms.
6. Eat smaller portions, and eat more frequently.
7. Do not wear clothing that is to tight.
8. Avoid bending over after eating.
9. Do not lie down or go to bed immediately after eating.
10. Avoid late night snacks.
11. If possible, elevate the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches to prevent reflux while sleeping.
12. Avoid hard candy and chewing gum. This will increase the amount of air you swallow which leads to burping and reflux.
