Acid Reflux Diet

Mother burping six month old baby after a meal

Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when the sphincter, or ring of muscle fibers, between your esophagus and stomach does not close correctly. This causes food and stomach acids to leak back into the stomach, which commonly leads to heartburn, nausea and the feeling that food is trapped behind your breastbone. Although over-the-counter medications may ease these symptoms, a proper acid reflux diet helps you avoid heartburn.

Safe foods

Foods that are safe for a sufferer of acid reflux come from every major food group - you do not have to put your body's nutritional needs at risk. Acceptable fruits include bananas and apples in any form. Broccoli, cabbage, carrots, green beans and peas are all safe vegetables. Protein, found in chicken, egg whites and fish, exerts pressure on the problematic sphincter and is good for heartburn. However, meats should always consist of lean cuts. Fat-free feta or goat cheese, cream cheese and sour cream are also safe. Drinking mineral water prevents heartburn more than other drinks.

Why not try inventing recipes that only include these foods? You can also find acid reflux-safe recipes online.

Foods to avoid

It is important to know the foods that cause acid reflux in order to avoid them. These foods either relax the problematic sphincters or cause excess stomach acid production. Greasy foods, butter, mayonnaise, whole milk, creamy sauces and generally fatty foods cause heartburn, as do chocolate and peppermint. You should also avoid soft drinks, coffee and other beverages likely to contain caffeine or carbonation. Alcohol, spicy foods, pepper and citrus fruits also stimulate acid production and, as such, you should avoid these foods.

Keep a food diary

Since the exact food that triggers acid reflux varies from on person to the next, it is a good idea to keep a food diary listing everything you eat. When you have heartburn, you can then go back, and figure out the source. This also helps your doctor advise you on an appropriate diet.

Acid reflux does not have to create constant discomfort and pain. By avoiding certain foods that contain caffeine or fat or that are too acidic, you can control this condition naturally, and avoid medications to control heartburn. This guide is a great way to start on the path to an acid reflux-free lifestyle.

Avoiding certain foods you may not have to use medication to control heartburn.