A burning sensation that can turn even the most delicious meal into a regretful memory. But it is not just about heartburn; acid reflux can also bring a sour taste in your mouth, a persistent cough, or even a scratchy throat. When managing acid reflux, what you eat can make a significant difference to the quality of life.

While medications can help, choosing the best foods for acid reflux is vital in keeping these symptoms at bay. Certain foods can soothe and protect your digestive system, while others can exacerbate the problem. 

Understanding which foods to embrace and foods to avoid with GERD (Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease) is the first step toward finding relief and enjoying meals without adversely affecting the quality of life. 

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid travels back into the esophagus, causing uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and a sore throat.

The causes of acid reflux include:

• Weakened lower esophageal sphincter muscle.
• Hiatal hernia (sliding hiatus hernia).
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Medications such as Ibuprofen and Aspirin.

Getting acid reflux occasionally isn’t unusual, but almost 20% of the population feels burning discomfort, belching, and bloating every time they eat. The GERD diet plays a crucial role in controlling these symptoms. 

Foods that stay longer in the stomach delay digestion and trigger heartburn. Generally, acidic, fatty, or highly caffeinated foods are the foods to avoid with GERD.

• Fried and Fatty foods: French fries, fried chicken, full-fat dairy. They cause the LES to relax.
• Acidic foods: Citrus fruits, tomatoes, salsa, and ketchup.
• Alcohol: Not only relaxes the sphincter but stimulates acid production.
• Peppermint: Reputed for soothing but increases reflux risk.
• Chocolates: Contains methylxanthine which relaxes LES muscles.
• Caffeine: Tea, coffee, and coke aggravate symptoms.
• Carbonated beverages: Expansion in stomach creates pressure and pain.

Late-night snacks: Avoid eating anything two hours before bed. Avoid liquid intake close to bed-time.

Incorporating a few foods in the diet plan reduces symptoms and neutralizes stomach acid:

• Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, cauliflower, potatoes, leafy greens.
• Fiber-rich foods: Whole grains (couscous, brown rice, oatmeal), root vegetables (carrots).
• Ginger: Natural remedy for nausea and indigestion with anti-inflammatory properties.
• Non-citrus fruits: Melons, apples, bananas, and pears.
• Lean meat and seafood: Turkey, fish, chicken (boiled, grilled, or baked).
• Egg whites: Rich in protein and low in fat.
• Healthy fats: Walnuts, flaxseeds, avocados, olive oil.

Post-surgery or for general management, patients should avoid heavy lifting, monitor for infection signs, eschew tight clothing, and cushion the abdomen while coughing. The doctor may prescribe pain management medication and prophylactic antibiotics to mitigate discomfort and prevent diseases.

Dr. Ashok Bohra is a reputed gastrointestinal and bariatric surgeon in Dubai with over three decades of expertise. He crafts personalized treatment plans, including GERD diet counseling and minimally invasive procedures.

Experience life without heartburn! Book your consultation now!