Foods to Eat With GERD

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a medical condition that develops when acid or sometimes bile from the stomach is pushed up into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation. Many people with GERD can taste the acids in the back of their mouth when the reflux occurs. The hallmark symptom of GERD is heartburn. In most cases, GERD can be treated with a combination of medication and lifestyle changes, including dietary changes. When GERD is not well-controlled it can lead to serious complications, such as esophageal ulcers and precancerous tissue in the esophagus.

Meals

• People with GERD can eat most foods without trouble, but they often find symptoms are less bothersome if they eat smaller meals more frequently. This may help minimize symptoms because larger meals can cause the stomach to become distended, pushing food and acid back up the esophagus. What foods are eaten is not as important as how much is eaten, so if you find your symptoms to be bothersome, try eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day. It's also a good idea for people with GERD to avoid eating for at least an hour or two before going to bed, because lying down can make symptoms worse.

Avoid Triggers

• Some foods are known to irritate and aggravate GERD symptoms, so they are best avoided. Over time you may notice that certain foods cause your symptoms to flare. Common culprits include tomatoes and tomato-based foods, citrus foods and citrus juices, spicy foods, onions, garlic, chocolate, and peppermint or minty foods. When you experience painful heartburn, it's a good idea to think about the foods you just ate and whether they have caused you problems before. Having a good idea of the foods that trigger heartburn can help you better control the condition.

Beverages

• Several types of beverages can irritate the stomach and digestive tract in people with GERD. Carbonated drinks, caffeinated beverages, decaffeinated coffee and tea, and alcohol can all be troublesome for people with GERD, so they are best avoided or strictly limited. It's important to stay hydrated, however, so focus on drinking fluids that will not cause symptoms. Water is always a good choice.