Bile-Reduction Diets

Too much bile is known as bile reflux. Bile reflux is caused by the flow of bile from the small intestine into the stomach and then up into the esophagus. Normally a sphincter in the lower section of the esophagus opens only for the passage of food. But when the valve weakens or opens abnormally, bile can wash up into the esophagus, which leads to heartburn, inflammation and bile reflux. Modifying your diet to limit fatty foods, eliminating problem beverages and foods, and eating more often can help control bile.

Bile Reduction

• Bile is released into the small intestine and stomach whenever you eat. Eat smaller meals and space them out throughout the day to reduce the amount of pressure and work load placed on the esophageal sphincter. After you eat, stay upright for at least two to three hours so that your stomach has an adequate amount of time to empty out.

  Limit the number of fatty foods you eat. Foods that are high in fat slow down the digestion process, which means that food sits in your stomach longer. The longer food sits in your stomach, the more bile will be produced and the higher the chance for your lower esophageal sphincter to relax at the wrong time.

  Limit or avoid foods and beverages that are problems. Spicy foods, carbonated and caffeinated beverages, citrus fruits, foods and juices, vinegar-based dressings and onions are all problem foods that require your body to produce more bile, which can lead to your lower esophageal sphincter relaxing prematurely or abnormally.

  Chocolate is another problem food that can bring on a bout of bile reflux. Cocoa is a herb, and it relaxes the muscles lining the esophagus and the digestive tract. Eat chocolate in moderation only.

  Mints such as spearmint and peppermint should also be limited or avoided altogether, as they tend to relax the esophageal muscle and trigger bile reflux.

  Limit or eliminate alcohol. Alcohol irritates the esophagus, which can lead to abnormal relaxation in the lower esophageal sphincter.