Natural Diet for GERD

GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a condition in which the muscles of the lower esophagus have weakened to a point where stomach acid is allowed to splash up into the upper esophagus. This results in burning and pain in the throat and upper chest. Certain foods are known to aggravate GERD, while others are said to calm the condition. Thankfully, some simple diet adjustments are sometimes all a GERD sufferer needs to quiet the unpleasant symptoms.

Foods to avoid

While some have their own food triggers for GERD, certain foods are known to affect a majority of GERD sufferers in two ways: by initiating acid reflux, aggravating an already-inflamed lower esophagus, or a combination of both. Foods known to induce acid reflux include: chocolate, peppermint, creamy foods, whole milk, oils, fast food and fatty or fried foods. Foods that can irritate the lower-esophageal muscles include caffeinated beverages and acidic citrus foods and beverages such as orange juice and grapefruit.

Recommended Foods for GERD Sufferers

Some foods are recommended for heartburn sufferers because of their very low likelihood of aggravating GERD symptoms. These foods include fruits such as apples and bananas, proteins such as lean chicken, beef and eggs, low-fat foods, and vegetables such as broccoli, peas, carrots, cabbage and baked potatoes. While these foods very rarely aggravate acid reflux, every person is different, so it is best to experiment with different foods to make sure they don't cause an individual reaction.

GERD Diet Trial and Error

Since GERD symptoms vary in intensity and cause from person to person, one way to pinpoint foods that aggravate GERD is to try an inclusion diet. Starting with foods known not to aggravate GERD as a base, gradually incorporate one food at a time and allow the body time to react. If including the food causes no incidents, then it's OK to eat.