What foods should I avoid to prevent acid reflux?
This article will discuss a health issue that is common - acid retching. We have all experienced acid reflux. This condition occurs when stomach acid is forced back up into the esophagus. It can cause symptoms such as heartburn or nausea. Certain foods may trigger the condition in some individuals. What are they? Why should we avoid these foods? Find out.
How to Manage Acid Reflux with Dietary Changes
Recent studies show that diet plays a major role in acid reflux management. Some foods relax the lower-esophageal valve, which allows stomach acid to return into the esophagus and trigger acid reflux. Acid reflux can be triggered by eating these foods regularly. This may lead to frequent acid reflux episodes, and eventually complications such as gastroesophageal disease (GERD).
Knowing what to avoid in order to prevent acid reflux is therefore crucial. A diet designed to minimize acid reflux is also beneficial for digestive health.
Start by identifying trigger foods
It's crucial to understand that each person's triggers are different. Others may not experience acid reflux when eating certain foods. A food journal can help you identify your trigger foods.
According to a study in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, eliminating trigger foods can reduce acid reflux symptoms.
What Foods Can Trigger Acid Reflux?
- Capsaicin (the compound in chili peppers that gives them their spicy flavor) can slow down digestion, causing heartburn.
- Acid reflux can be caused by eating foods high in fat. Fried food and fast-food are examples of these.
- Citrus Fruits are acidic fruits that can cause acid reflux.
- Tomatoes are acidic by nature and may aggravate symptoms of reflux.
- Theobromine is a chemical found in chocolate that weakens the lower esophageal muscle.
- While peppermint is often used for a sour stomach, it can relax the lower-esophageal muscle, which allows stomach acid to return into the esophagus.
- The caffeine in both coffee and tea can cause acid reflux.
- Acid reflux can be caused by alcohol consumption because it relaxes the lower sphincter.
- Some people can experience acid reflux when eating garlic and onions.
- These drinks contain bubbles that can increase pressure inside the stomach and cause or worsen acid reflux.
Other Tips to Prevent Acid Reflux
Other lifestyle changes can also help to prevent acid reflux. Maintaining a healthy body weight is important for acid reflux management. Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy diet. Avoid lying down right after you eat, and ideally, eat dinner three hours prior to bedtime. According to a study in JAMA, late-night eating can cause acid reflux symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, diet plays a vital role in the management of acid reflux. By avoiding certain foods such as citrus fruit, spicy food, foods high in fat, and carbonated drinks, you can reduce acid reflux symptoms. Changing your lifestyle, such as exercising regularly and not lying flat after eating, can also help. Everyone's triggers will be different. It's therefore important to determine your own triggers to prevent and manage acid reflux.
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