Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common chronic digestive complications. It occurs when your stomach content gets back to your esophagus due to the lower esophageal sphincter malfunction. Your esophagus becomes irritated, causing issues like acid reflux and hurt burns. Several factors can be blamed for the occurrence, and Charlotte GERD specialists can diagnose you accurately. The food you eat can have a lot to do with your symptoms, and it is necessary to make some changes. Here is how to choose your foods carefully when dealing with GERD.
Stay Away from Spicy and Fatty Foods
Medical professionals have found that fatty and spicy foods can trigger acid reflux or a burn. You may continue eating the foods in controlled quantities to manage your situation. You only have to remove them from your regular diet routine. Deep-fried foods, buttery, creamy, and daily heavy foods should be limited in your diet. Remember also to cut your consumption of hot pepper and chiles. Consult your doctor to evaluate your dietary choices and know exactly what to eliminate.
Avoid Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol contents are not easy for your body to process. Such products affect saliva production in your mouth, which is critical for digestion. While you can have a drink now and then, please remove the substances from your daily diet routine. Alcohol has other harmful effects on your body, and it is crucial to regulate your consumption as much as possible. If you can quit, the better. Pay attention to how you feel and how your body reacts when you take a cup of coffee and make a wise decision.
No More Acidic Foods
As mentioned earlier, GERD occurs when the stomach acid and content return to your esophagus. Eating acidic foods only makes your situation worse. They can irritate your esophagus and worsen your situation. Foods like tomatoes, cocoa products, and citrus fruits are common in many people’s diet plans but should be avoided as much as possible when dealing with GERD. Less acidic foods like strawberries have also been found to accelerate GERD symptoms.
Opt to Eat Healthily
Several foods can help cool down GERD symptoms. Some veggies, fruits, lean meat, and whole grains can help improve and overcome your symptoms. Discuss with your doctor to understand some of the good foods you can eat when enduring GERD. You can try apples, berries, whole grains such as wild rice, quinoa, farro, oatmeal, and cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower and broccoli. You can also try fish and lean meat, including poultry and cuts.
Wait Before Lying Down
Lying down or engaging in vigorous activities right after eating can worsen your GERD symptoms. It would be best to take things slow and easy after eating to allow your body to process the foods. Many people report heartburn after going to sleep or lying down after eating. That is why late-night snacks are discouraged, and you are advised to take your super an hour before bedtime. Activities involving bending over can also worsen your symptoms.
GERD can easily be managed with dietary choices. Talk to Carolina Digestive Health Associates to learn what you need to do with your food choices. Get online now or call to request a consultation with the experts.
