Acid Reflux Foods to Stay Away From

Acid reflux disease is a condition that is caused when the lining of the esophagus gets irritated. The irritation of the esophagus is caused due to abnormal functioning of the stomach sphincter muscles. Eating extremely spicy food is one of the most prominent causes of acid reflux disease, also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). Secondly, smoking and alcoholism are also other causes of it. As it is caused due to diet and eating habits, following a proper diet helps in the treatment of the disease.

Foods to Avoid with Acid Reflux Disease

One of the most significant symptoms of this disease is heartburn and chest pain. Heartburn is caused due to foods containing high levels of acid or acidic foods. On consuming these foods, the acid level in the body rises, resulting in acidity and GERD. At the same time, consuming excess of spicy and hot food also leads to this condition. Therefore, spices, hot food, fried food, acidic food, etc. are the foods to avoid in the acid reflux diet.

• Brownie
• Buffalo wings
• Beer
• Baked chips
• Black pepper
• Chili pepper
• Cranberry juice
• Carbonated beverages
• Chocolate
• Cookies
• Cottage cheese
• Citrus juices
• Chicken nuggets
• Corn chips
• Coffee
• Donut
• French fries
• Fried meats
• Granola Bars
• Ground beef
• Garlic
• Ginger
• Hot sauces
• Grapefruit Juice
• Ice cream
• Jalapeños
• Lemon
• Liquor
• Lemonade
• Marbled sirloin
• Mashed potatoes
• Macaroni and cheese
• Milk shake
• Orange juice
• Onion
• Oil
• Potato chips
• Popcorn
• Paprika
• Peppermint
• Sour cream
• Salad dressing
• Spaghetti sauce
• Tomato
• Tomato sauce / juice
• Tea
• Vinegar
• Wine

Apart from these, foods containing excess fats are also included in the foods to avoid with acid reflux list. Fats slow down the digestive process and also stimulate the production of bile which leads to acidity and heartburn. On the other hand, alcohol and citrus fruit juices contain high amounts of acid and increase the level of acid in the body. Beverages like coffee, tea and other caffeine containing products like sodas and cold drinks can also lead to acidity and GERD. Therefore, they should be avoided.

On the other hand, there are several safe foods to eat, like vegetables, whole grains, low-fat or fat-free dairy, rice cakes, extra lean or skinless meat and chicken. Apart from the above mentioned ones, you can have herbal tea, bananas and light food without any spices. You also need to follow certain dietary habits along with the above mentioned diet plan. You should have meals at proper and regular time everyday and avoid having larger meals at night. Secondly, lying down immediately on having food is also not recommended as it can lead to chronic acid reflux diseases. Lastly, alcohol consumption and smoking should be reduced to improve the condition and to get rid of chronic acidity and heartburn.

Lastly, note that, apart from medications, following the acid reflux or GERD diet definitely helps in the treatment and prevention of this condition. So, one should start following the diet before the condition turns chronic. It is recommended to consult the doctor if you suffer from severe symptoms of acid reflux disease. Take care!