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Diet for Severe Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) causes liquid to travel from the stomach to the esophagus. This condition is more commonly referred to as acid reflux disease, and millions of people suffer from it.
An acid reflux diet is easy to follow if you understand which foods cause acid reflux and which are safe to eat. Any diet should include food from the five basic food groups. Including these dietary changes in your treatment plan may help you prevent potential serious complications from this condition.

  1. Foods That Increase Stomach Acid

    • Avoiding foods that increase stomach acid will help to reduce symptoms of severe acid reflux. Decrease or eliminate your consumption of chocolate, peppermint, pineapple, fatty meats, fried foods, creamed foods, vinegars, oranges, oils, spicy foods, caffeine, tomatoes, grapefruit, and carbonated beverages, all of which can cause acid reflux. Avoid sugar or foods with high sugar content.

    Safe Foods

    • Fat-free and low-fat products do not cause acid reflux and are safe to eat. Switch from whole milk to skim or low fat. Eat whole grains, berries, fish, pears, poultry, bananas, vegetables (not creamed), peaches and melons. Sugar-free desserts can also be added to your diet.

    Other Things That May Help

    • Eating several small meals a day, taking a walk after dinner and not eating within two hours of bedtime may help to reduce acid reflux. Decreasing intake of alcohol and nicotine can also help relieve your symptoms. While lying down, elevate your head to a level higher than your stomach to help relieve pressure. Wear loose clothing to avoid pressure on the stomach. Keep a journal to record what triggers your acid reflux episodes to help you determine what changes are needed to alleviate your symptoms.

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