Heartburn & GERD Diet

Heartburn and GERD (gastroesophogeal reflux disease) are conditions that affect millions of Americans. Both involve the acids of the stomach seeping into the upper stomach and esophagus areas. Sufferers feel a burning pain or general discomfort that moves from the stomach, up the chest, or even into the throat.

Food Log

You can begin by keeping a food and activity log which will help you see patterns between your food intake and symptoms of heartburn or GERD. Here you will document what, when and how much you eat. You can write down any and all symptoms, including the time the symptoms appear. List any activities including exercise or sleeping, or even lying down to watch television. This log can be taken to your doctor so that he or she can help you establish a plan to help you treat or avoid the symptoms of GERD or heartburn.

Diet

There are general ways to control the discomfort associated with heartburn and GERD through your diet. If you have suffered heartburn or been diagnosed with GERD you should avoid acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes. Other foods to avoid include spicy foods such as peppers, garlic and onions. Herbs from the mint family can induce symptoms of heartburn or GERD, such as spearmint, wintergreen and peppermint. Caffeine can bring on symptoms, as well as fried foods.

Occasionally, grains and dairy items may cause symptoms of heartburn or GERD. Cheeses and full-fat dairy items such as sour cream or cottage cheese, ice cream and yogurt have triggered symptoms. Alcohol also can induce the pain of these conditions.

If you eat out, you may be overwhelmed by the menu choices when trying to manage GERD or heartburn. Two tips will come in handy when dining out: choose low-fat foods and be careful your portion size. Request meats grilled or broiled, not fried. Choose healthy vegetables with low-fat dressings--they are a better choice than creamy sauces or side dishes. Get a doggie bag so you can save the rest for later.

Another tip is to eat smaller meals, more frequently if needed. This will keep the meal from staying in the stomach for very long which keeps the stomach acids from pushing up into the esophagus and causing the painful symptoms of GERD or heartburn.

Consult Physician

As always, you should talk to your doctor when making changes to your diet or lifestyle. Talk to your doctor about your plans to eat a healthier diet. If your symptoms worsen, or if you have severe pain in the arms, back, or chest, call your doctor or 9-1-1 immediately.