What Can I Feed My Child Who Has Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux disease, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease, is caused by stomach acid flowing from the stomach to the esophagus due to an impaired lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a muscle located at the bottom of the esophagus that connects to the stomach. Normally, food passes through the LES, followed by the LES contracting to prevent acid and food from flowing back. Certain foods can cause the LES to stay relaxed, however, which allows stomach acid to flow into the esophagus.

Fruit

• Apples and bananas are not acidic fruits, which makes them a safe choice for acid-reflux sufferers. Acidic fruits include oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruit, pineapples and berries.

Vegetables

• Most vegetables are safe to eat, except for tomatoes, corn, lentils and squash, which increase acid secretion due to their levels of acid. Carrots, cauliflower, onions, peppers, green beans and cucumbers are just a few of the vegetables that don't worsen acid reflux disease.

Whole Grain

• Whole-grain foods, including pasta, bread, oatmeal and oat bran, reduce the amount of acid in your child's stomach, lowering the risk of acid reflux. Whole-grain foods are complex carbohydrates that slowly break down during digestion, which is beneficial when attempting to reduce the amount of acid your child's stomach produces.

Dairy

• Fat-free or low-fat dairy products are low in acidity and reduce the risk of acid reflux.

Lean Meat

• Extra-lean ground beef, skinless poultry and fish are low in acidity and are considered low-risk foods for acid-reflux sufferers. Limit meat consumption to 3 ounces daily to reduce fat intake, which contributes to weakening the LES.

Trigger Foods

• Avoid chocolate, spearmint, peppermint, spicy foods, fatty foods and fried foods as they weaken the LES by relaxing it, which allows acid to flow back into the esophagus. Soft drinks and citrus juice should also be eliminated and replaced with water.