Gastroesophageal reflux disease is more common than most people think, affecting around 20 percent of the American population. GERD is a digestive disease which causes stomach acid to remain in the esophagus, which can cause serious tissue damage. Certain foods can seriously affect your symptoms as well as how often you experience those symptoms, so it’s important that individuals with GERD are careful about their diet and the foods they consume.
Foods to add to your diet that will help acid reflux:
-Vegetables – Vegetables have low levels of fat and sugar and can help reduce stomach acid. Some vegetables to keep on your grocery list include: beans, broccoli asparagus, cauliflower, leafy greens, potatoes and cucumbers
-Ginger – Ginger contains anti-inflammatory properties and can reduce nausea
-Oatmeal – Not only is oatmeal a whole grain and an excellent source of fiber, but it also absorbs acid in the stomach and can reduce reflux symptoms.
-Noncitrus fruits- Fruits should already be a part of your diet, but melons, bananas, apples and pears are fruits that are less likely to trigger reflux symptoms.
-Lean meats – Lean meats like chicken, turkey, fish and seafood are low in fat and can help prevent acid reflux symptoms.
-Egg whites – Egg whites are great, but stay away from egg yolks as they are high in fat, which typically triggers reflux.
While this list is a good variety of food that will allow you to switch up each of your meals, your diet isn’t necessarily the only lifestyle change you can make to help alleviate your symptoms.
Appropriate lifestyle changes
- Avoiding alcohol
- Quit smoking
- Avoid overeating or eating large meals
- Remain upright for at least two hours after eating
- Don’t eat 3-4 hours before bed
If you or a loved one are currently suffering from symptoms of acid reflux/GERD, consider participating in a clinical research study with Preferred Research Partners.
Sources
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/14085.php
https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/diet-nutrition#lifestyle-changes
