Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a long-term condition in which stomach acid repeatedly rises back up into the esophagus. While occasional acid reflux is unlikely to do any damage aside from being uncomfortable, GERD can damage the digestive organs above the stomach and lead to complications, including:
- Barrett’s esophagus
- Esophageal stricture
- Esophagitis
- Asthma
- Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)
There are a few options that can help you manage GERD, ranging from surgery and medication to lifestyle changes. One lifestyle factor many people focus on is their diet.
How Nutrition Affects GERD
You may have noticed that your GERD flares after an extra spicy dinner at Roti Grill or a large glass of orange juice. Certain foods can cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—the muscle separating the stomach and esophagus—[1]to open more frequently or for longer than necessary, leading to acid reflux symptoms like heartburn.
A few foods and drinks that have been linked to GERD include:
- High-fat foods
- Excess salt
- Mint
- Spicy foods
- Chocolate
- Acidic foods
- Caffeine
You don’t necessarily need to eliminate these foods to control your GERD. Limiting how often you eat them and eating smaller portions can help. You should also avoid eating these and other foods close to bedtime; lying down right after eating can increase your risk of reflux.
Foods That May Help Acid Reflux
High pH (less acidic) foods may help counteract rising stomach acid. Try foods like:
- Nuts
- Bananas
- Melons
- Alkaline water
- Ginger
Everyone’s experience with GERD is different, so there isn’t one diet that works for everyone. Keeping a food diary can help you identify specific foods or drinks that tend to trigger your symptoms. You can then make changes to your diet without unnecessarily restricting the foods you enjoy.
When To Seek ENT Help
Nutrition is just one part of GERD management. If dietary and lifestyle changes aren’t enough to control your symptoms, our ENT specialists can walk you through some other treatment options. With the right combination of strategies, you can find an approach that helps manage symptoms and prevents complications from long-term acid reflux. Contact Collin County ENT to schedule your appointment.
[1] Cleveland Clinic. (2021). Esophagus. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21728-esophagus