Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, is a condition whereby acid-containing gastric juices come into the esophagus from the gut. The lower part of the esophagus contains a valve at the end, called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES for short, which opens to let the food we eat get into the gut, and then shutting to keep the gastric juices and food within the stomach. When this valve relaxes too frequently or doesn’t shut properly, it can lead to the gastric juices getting into the esophagus, which isn’t supplied to address the acidic matter. When this happens it leads to the telltale signs of heartburn, with a sensation of burning in the area.
While most people may experience heartburn often, if it continues for too long, notwithstanding making changes in the diet as well as treatment, it may mean acid reflux disease, also known as GERD. When the esophagus is exposed steadily to the acidic juices of the belly, it can become irritated and even damaged, leading to erosive esophagitis, or inflammation of the esophagus. What are the Foods to Avoid to control Acid Reflux?
However,the condition can be improved by finding out about what foods to avoid, and making the required diet changes so. Naturally you will need to ask your doctor before making any extreme diet changes, and also devise a plan that you know you can stick to over the long term.
Some of the usual foods that are known for causing heartburn, that leads to acid reflux disease, are : dairy goods such as milk, cheese, yogurt, milk shakes, and ice cream ; spicy foods ; garlic and onions ; carb-heavy foods like bread, macaroni, and spaghetti ; fried foods ; chocolate ; alcoholic drinks ; caffeinated drinks ; beef ; mashed potatoes ; spearmint and peppermint ; and tomato-based foods.
The best way to find out which foods do trigger off acid reflux symptoms is to maintain a food diary, jotting down the foods that do cause the symptoms.
Also, it’s best to avoid eating enormous meals, and instead have smaller meals more number of times in a day. In addition, it is also recommended not to head off to bed right after a meal. A third tip that you can try to alleviate the symptoms is to raise the head of your bed.
For more information about chronic heartburn, visit What causes acid reflux.
If you would like to make a comment, please fill out the form below.
