Reflux Reducing Foods

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or acid reflux, is caused by the overproduction of acid the stomach uses to digest the food you eat. When there is too much acid in the stomach, it tends to overflow, or reflux, into the esophagus and cause pain in the upper stomach. Smaller portion sizes can decrease the amount of stomach acid, but what you put on your plate is just as important a factor. Concentrate on incorporating foods into your diet that are easily digestible and don't irritate your stomach.

What Not to Eat

Before putting together a sensible diet to combat acid reflux, you must first eliminate foods that irritate your stomach and stimulate acid reflux. Avoid high-fat foods, especially deep-fried foods like French fries, because these foods tend to stay in the stomach longer because they require more stomach acid to break them down. Carbonated sodas and alcohol also irritate the stomach and cause an overproduction of stomach acid. Beware of seemingly healthy foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes and dairy products: these foods may cause or worsen acid reflux as well.

Fruits and Vegetables You Can Eat

While oranges and grapefruits should be avoided during your acid reflux episodes, apples and bananas are safe to eat and may even alleviate some burning symptoms. Green vegetables such as green beans, broccoli, and peas will bring down stomach acid. Carrots are also friendly to those suffering from acid reflux.

Meats, Dairy, and Grain

If you must eat meat during an acid reflux episode, make sure your meat is extra lean. If the meat comes with fat, trim it, or drain the fat grease after cooking. In short, you must eliminate fat at all costs. Skinless chicken is good for acid reflux as chicken fat often clings to the underside of the skin. Fish is always a good low-fat choice for an entree. Fat-free or low-fat dairy products like milk and cheese are safe to eat and drink. Make your bread the multi-grain variety, and add bran, oatmeal, and rice into your breakfast, lunch or dinner. And, as with most physical maladies, drink plenty of water. Water helps disperse some of the excess stomach acid that languishes in your belly.