The symptoms of reflux can vary from person to person, but common ones include heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, regurgitation of food or acid into the throat, difficulty swallowing, and a sour taste in the mouth. If left untreated, gastric reflux can lead to complications such as esophagitis, esophageal stricture, and Barrett’s esophagus, which increases the risk of esophageal cancer.
While medication can help symptoms of gastric reflux, there are also dietary changes that can be made to manage the condition. Here are some tips on what to eat and what to avoid to help relieve symptoms of gastric reflux:
Foods to eat:
– Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a low-acidic food that can help ease symptoms of gastric reflux. It is also high in fiber, which can help regulate bowel movements.
– Lean protein: Foods such as chicken, turkey, fish, and tofu are low in fat and can be easier on the digestive system than higher-fat meats.
– Vegetables: Non-acidic vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, and cucumber are good choices for those with gastric reflux. Avoid acidic vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
– Non-citrus fruits: Fruits such as bananas, melons, and apples are less acidic and easier to digest than citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits.
– Whole grains: Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat pasta are good choices for those with gastric reflux as they are high in fiber and low in fat.
Foods to avoid:
– Fatty or fried foods: High-fat foods are more difficult to digest and can trigger symptoms of gastric reflux. Avoid foods such as French fries, fried chicken, and fatty meats.
– Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are highly acidic and can irritate the esophagus.
– Alcohol: Alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
– Caffeine: Caffeine can stimulate the production of stomach acid, making symptoms of gastric reflux worse. Avoid drinks such as coffee, tea, and soda.
– Spicy foods: Spicy foods can irritate the esophagus and exacerbate symptoms of gastric reflux. Avoid foods such as hot peppers, chili powder, and curry.
In addition to specific foods to eat or avoid, there are also general guidelines for how to behave at the table to help manage symptoms of gastric reflux. Here are some tips:
– Eat smaller, more frequent meals: Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day can help reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and prevent symptoms of gastric reflux.
– Avoid lying down after eating: Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down or going to bed. This can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
– Don’t overeat: Overeating can put pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, causing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus.
– Chew food thoroughly: Chewing food thoroughly can help break down food into smaller pieces, making it easier to digest and reducing the risk of gastric reflux.
– Wear loose-fitting clothing: Tight clothing can put pressure on the abdomen, making symptoms of gastric reflux worse. Wear loose-fitting clothing to prevent this.
In conclusion, managing gastric reflux involves a combination of medication, lifestyle changes, and dietary changes. By following these tips on what to eat, what to avoid, and how to behave at the table, people with gastric reflux can help prevent symptoms and improve their quality of life.