If you have GERD, it is imperative that you take a GERD diet. GERD is an incurable chronic condition that occurs when stomach contents back up into the esophagus. Certain foods are recognized to cause GERD, therefore it is important to monitor what you eat. A proper food diary will aid greatly in your efforts to control your GERD. To begin, lets begin putting together a GERD diet plan by reviewing some foods to incorporate and avoid.
Tomatoes one of the most common foods associated with GERD. Although many tomato products are low in purine, large amounts of tomatoes can increase acid production in the body. Therefore, a portion of your diet should consist of steamed, chopped, or crushed tomatoes. Lightly steamed vegetables such as carrots, spinach, or Swiss chard are also good options.
Eggs one of the hardest foods for people to digest due to the presence of salicylate esterase, a compound commonly found in egg whites. Salicylate esterase is a pepsin like substance that breaks down proteins in the stomach, causing them to become more resistant to digestion. The more resistant they become, the more difficult it is to digest. Studies have shown that people with GERD who eat an excessive amount of eggs tend to suffer more severe GERD symptoms than those with a lower consumption of eggs. This makes a GERD diet plan for those with mild GERD a top priority in order to curb acid reflux in addition to their moderate GERD.
Alcohol this is probably the one vice that we all enjoy having a bit too much. However, excessive alcohol consumption can cause severe acid reflux, heartburn, and indigestion. The best way to avoid alcohol is to limit its consumption. However, if you happen to have this condition when drinking, it would be best to abstain from alcohol for a few days before your next meal.
Carbonated Drinks consume carbonated drinks with caution. Because of the acids that are naturally present in carbonated drinks, these drinks can raise the acidic levels in the stomach, upsetting the balance of the lower esophageal sphincter. The lower esophageal sphincter is responsible for keeping the contents of the stomach inside the stomach. Once the esophageal sphincter is affected, the contents will then reflux into the esophagus, causing further discomfort.
Foods To Avoid the list of GERD foods to avoid is very long. Some of the most common ones include: Coffee, tea, chocolate, citrus juices, tomato products, juices, wine, fatty or greasy foods, chocolate, peppermint, and other spicy foods. Most of these, if taken in moderation, will not necessarily cause symptoms of acid reflux but when taken in large amounts, they may. You should also be aware of foods that can irritate the LES and slow down its movement and digestion such as corn flakes, nuts, wheat, salt, mint, and caffeinated drinks. Acidic foods will also increase the production of stomach fluids and cause stomach discomfort and burning.