Citrus fruits and juice are very high in acid and can worsen the symptoms of acid reflux. If you suffer from heartburn, citrus is on the list of foods to avoid. Steer clear of:
Fried foods, high-fat or greasy foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter muscle. This will cause stomach acid to flow upward. Fatty foods can also slow down digestion. Try to avoid the following:
Tomatoes are a high-acid food. This is one of the most common foods to avoid with acid reflux. This makes your body produce excess stomach acid. Avoid tomatoes and also foods made from tomato like spaghetti sauce, pizza sauce, salsa, and tomato juice.
If you are a chocolate lover, this news may disappoint you. Chocolate is one of the worst offenders of acid reflux or GERD. It is high in fat and cocoa that increases acid production and it contains caffeine and theobromine that causes reflux. The good news is that dark chocolate has less fat and may be easier on acid reflux, but can still increase acid production.
Raw onions and garlic can cause a number of people to experience increased acid. These foods can cause heartburn and indigestion for some people. Especially those with acid reflux may notice increased episodes if garlic and onion are in their diet.
Caffeine and soda are some of the main causes of acid reflux. Carbonation expands the stomach and causes pressure on the esophageal sphincter. Caffeinated soda and drinks increase stomach acid and make the problem worse. The worst offenders tested out to be Diet Pepsi, Tab and Coke. Also refrain from coffee and iced tea that contain caffeine.
Among all foods to avoid with acid reflux, you should never miss out this one. Beverages that contain alcohol are actually low in acid, like beer, wine and liquor, but they can cause lower esophageal sphincter to relax. If you do drink beverages, just limit yourself to one beer, cocktail or glass of wine each day. Make sure that mixed drinks do not contain citrus juices (pineapple, orange or lemon) and/or carbonated soda.
Studies show that spicy foods may increase discomfort in any disorders of the digestive system, including acid reflux. Chili may cause burning and pain in the stomach. Avoid any spicy foods in your diet if you are suffering from acid reflux. When you are dining out in restaurants, remember to ask your waiter for "no-spice" dish.
Full-fat dairy can slow digestion and increase reflux symptoms. Too much milk products can also cause a "rebound effect" on stomach acid. Try to avoid full-fat milk, yogurt, ice cream, cottage cheese and sour cream. However, fat-free or low-fat types may even be helpful to reduce the symptoms.
It is a common misconception that peppermint is a stomach soother. Peppermint can trigger heartburn indeed. Many restaurants offer peppermints and people often use peppermints after dinner. This may cleanse your breath, but can increase stomach acid and relax the sphincter to the esophagus!
Besides knowing foods to avoid with acid reflux, you should also bear in mind the following tips when trying to soothe and heal your condition of acid reflux: