Acid reflux is a condition that affects thousands of Americans. For some people the condition is rare and doesn't interfere too frequently in their day to day activities, but for other people it is almost constant. Some of the symptoms can include heartburn, bitter fluid in the mouth, chest discomfort, hoarseness, coughing fits, and even shortness of breath. The symptoms can become so painful that they lead to insomnia, loss of appetite and trouble concentrating. However, the right diet can ease these symptoms even for people with the worst acid reflux.
In order to understand acid reflux, we must start with the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach for digestion. The lower section of the tubs has a special muscle around it that usually stays tightly closed, only opening very briefly to allow food and liquid into the stomach when we are eating. This muscle, when working properly, acts to prevent the movement of stomach acid into the esophagus. If the muscle weakens and allows stomach acid to splash up into the esophagus, the symptoms of acid reflux occur. Acid reflux symptoms are amplified by spicy or greasy diets.
Diets plans designed to prevent or reduce acid reflux and its uncomfortable symptoms are easy to find and follow. Items in all the basic food groups (cereals, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and meats) can be consumed with a few very important exceptions. Most diet plans created to reduce acid reflux discomfort generally meet the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) of the National Research Council. The only supplement that may be necessary is a vitamin C supplement, because foods containing citric acid, like oranges and tomatoes, can aggravate acid reflux.
When creating a diet plan to reduce acid reflux, it is more important to concentrate on what not to eat rather than make a list of what you should eat. Foods and drinks to avoid include all caffeinated beverages (tea, coffee and most sodas), any fruits containing citric acid (oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes), all spicy foods, chocolate, creamed soups, whole milk, anything fatty or fried (like fast food), and peppermint or spearmint. Eating low-fat, fresh foods without too many spices is the key to planning an effective acid reflux reduction diet.
There are other measures to take to supplement the healing qualities of any acid reflux reduction diet. If you smoke, quit; nicotine weakens the lower esophageal muscle, making it easier for acid from your stomach to pass through. Also, avoid chewing gum and hard candy as they cause you to swallow air which leads to belching and reflux. Do not eat before bed or lay down immediately after finishing a meal. Lying down allows acid from your stomach to move more easily towards your esophagus. If you must lie down after eating, elevate your head on extra pillows. Finally, do not wear tight clothing and avoid eating in a bent over position. If you follow the diet guidelines for people with acid reflux, you'll start to feel better right away.
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