Food To Eat And Food To Avoid With Acid Reflux

By Richal Peyton

Acid reflux may not be life-threatening but when left untreated, it can complicate into more serious conditions. In such case, acid reflux is a condition that should be prevented more than cured. After treatment, simply know what food to avoid with acid reflux. Continue reading this article to also find out what foods you can enjoy and how to maintain your health for life.

What To Avoid

Different individuals experience different degrees or cases of acid reflux. This article will tell you about every major food to avoid with acid reflux, however, it might be worthwhile keeping a diary so you know exactly what's best for your specific needs. Generally, you'll need to avoid high fat foods like fatty meats, high-fat dairy products, fried foods, and fast food. The problem here is the stomach has a hard time digesting fatty foods and so it secretes more acid. This results in the build-up of acid in your stomach, which eventually causes acid reflux.

Fruits and vegetables are extremely beneficial to everyone's health. But for those of us who suffer from acid reflux, things are a little different. We need to avoid citrus fruits like lemons and oranges, as they are considered acidic. Certain vegetables can also be acidic such as raw onions and tomatoes.

It is also good to use different kinds of spices while cooking, as these are known to have health benefits. Still, it is better to stay away from using chili peppers, as these can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. Pepper is actually used by some to treat acid reflux, but this is not good for those whose esophagus is already severely damaged by the condition.

Alcoholic beverages is another thing you should avoid if you have acid reflux. Alcoholic beverages like beer can double acidic production in your stomach within just an hour. Also try to stay away from sodas, caffeinated beverages and coffee.

What You Can Eat

Your appetite doesn't have to suffer because of your condition, though. You may eat meat, but make sure it is not high in fat. For instance, you can eat skinless chicken breast, lean beef, and fish. Get enough protein and calcium from low-fat dairy products like soy cheese, sour cream, and fat-free cream cheese. Couple your food with grains like multi-grain bread, baked potato, broccoli, peas and brown rice. Enjoy some sweets every now and then with jellybeans, fat-free cookies and red licorice. Since eating smaller, more frequent meals is best for acid reflux sufferers, you may snack on bananas and fresh apples from time to time.

Your doctor may recommend foods that are rich in alkaline. These foods include blackberries, mushrooms, cabbage, cauliflower, celery, sprouted beans, and honey.

Extra Help

The best way to deal with the condition is to be proactive and to constantly find ways to improve treatment. Fiber is known to treat acid reflux symptoms and should therefore be part of your diet. You may get enough fiber from oatmeal or sprinkle a powdered fiber supplement over your food or drink.

There may be a lot of food to avoid with acid reflux, but life doesn't have to be boring from now on. There are thousands of recipes you can find online that are especially designed for those of us who have acid reflux. Before trying out any method though, consult your doctor first.