Severe Acid Reflux Diet

The backward flow of stomach acid that causes a burning sensation in the chest and a sour taste in the back of the mouth is acid reflux. Acid reflux is the action that causes the sensation of heartburn. Acid reflux usually occurs after eating and at night, and lying down or bending over worsens the symptoms. Pregnancy, some foods, alcohol, smoking and some medications trigger acid reflux. However, gastroesophageal reflux disease, a condition when the esophagus muscles do not close tightly, also can cause acid reflux. If chronic and left untreated, the esophagus will erode.

Acid Reflux Treatment

Recommended methods to treat acid reflux include behavior modification and over-the-counter medication, such as antacids, foaming agents and H2 blockers. Behavior modifications include changes in diet, weight loss, medication and quitting smoking. However, consult a gastroenterologist if symptoms continue or worsen and occur more than two times a week.

Acid Reflux Diet Contributors

Acid reflux sufferers should keep a daily food and symptom journal to identify what foods are triggers. The list below provides a guide to what not to eat and drink; items do not need to be removed from a diet unless they are proven to worsen symptoms. Sufferers should evaluate their diets and develop their personal list of triggers.

Fried foods
High-fat foods
Chocolate
Peppermint
Alcoholic beverages
Carbonated beverages
Caffeinated beverages
Coffee (including decaffeinated coffee)
Acidic foods and condiments (ketchup, mustard, vinegar, tomato sauce, some salad dressings)
Citrus fruits or juices
Peppery foods and hot sauces

Other Tips

Although a preventative diet is necessary to reduce acid reflux, consider additional triggers related to food. Acid reflux is worse following meals because the stomach is full. Smaller and earlier evening meals reduce the amount of reflux because the stomach is likely to be empty at bedtime when sufferers lie down. Therefore, eat at least two to three hours before bedtime or lying down, and eat smaller meals.

Chewing sugar-free gum for 30 minutes after a meal also has been recommended in reducing acid reflux. Chewing gum increases saliva. Saliva neutralizes acid in the esophagus, ultimately reducing acidic postprandial esophageal reflux.