Following A GERD Diet Can Improve Your Symptoms!When I was 280 pounds, I was unaware of a GERD Diet. In fact, until I learned the facts on obesity, I was unaware that many of the foods I consumed were making my symptoms worse. Once I learned foods to avoid and followed my healthy eating plan, my symptoms of GERD improved! What is GERD?GERD or Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a more serious form of Gastroesophageal reflux (GER). GER is when stomach contents back up (reflux) into the esophagus. GER occurs because the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscular valve where the esophagus and stomach meet, relaxes or does not close properly. GER is common and may occur occasionally. GERD is not common but it can affect people of all ages.
Many common foods can worsen your symptoms. Foods to Avoid with GERDGERD diet foods to avoid are:
• Citrus Fruits • Chocolate • Caffeine • Alcohol • Fatty Food • Fried Foods • Garlic • Mint Flavorings • Spicy Foods • Onions • Tomato-based foods (spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili, pizza) GERD Diet Tips
While the list of foods to avoid seems long, there are plenty of foods you can have. The key is in the preparation of your favorit foods! Here are some Diet Tips for GERD:
• Bake or broil your meat without added fat • Use alternatives to spices. My favorite is Mrs. Dash • Look for low acid products for chili Prevent Symptoms of GERDOther tips to prevent symptoms of GERD include:• Drink plenty of water and eat the recommended daily allowance of fiber to keep your gastrointestinal (GI) tractproperly functioning • Avoid eating 3 hours before bedtime • Stop or reduce smoking • Eat small, frequent meals • Wear loose-fitting clothes • Raise the head of your bed, under your bedpost, by 6 to 8 inches. Extra pillows will not help! If you experience symptoms of GERD for 2 weeks or more, you should speak with your doctor for treatment.
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