Many of us have experienced the occasional case of acid reflux. However, others experience symptoms such as pain or burning in their chest after almost every meal or a chronic cough caused by irritation.
If you’re someone who suffers from regular acid reflux symptoms, let’s look at ways altering your diet can improve your condition.
Common Acid Reflux Triggers
While not everyone gets acid reflux from the same foods, some seem more likely to trigger symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, common triggers of acid reflux include:
- Foods that are high in fat
- Fried foods
- Tomato sauce
- Citrus fruits
- Alcohol
- Chocolate
- Mint
- Garlic
- Onion
- Caffeine
Try eliminating these foods from your diet to see if your symptoms improve. Over time you may be able to add back certain foods as long as they don’t trigger your reflux.
Foods To Include in Your Diet
While it’s not fun to think about the foods you can’t eat, there are still plenty of foods that don’t seem to trigger acid reflux. The next time you’re shopping at 3 Rivers Natural Grocery Co-op & Deli consider adding these foods to your cart:
- Fresh vegetables like broccoli, leafy greens, asparagus, cucumber and cauliflower
- Whole-grain foods high in fiber such as oatmeal, brown rice and some breads
- Lean meats and seafood
- Non-citrus fruits such as bananas and apples
- Egg whites
- Ginger
- Healthy fats like nuts, avocadoes and olive oil
Other Lifestyle Changes To Prevent Reflux
In addition to your diet, other behaviors may help reduce your symptoms. These include:
- Eat your food slowly
- Have smaller meals throughout the day
- Avoid tight-fitting clothing
- Don’t lie down right after eating
- Quit smoking if you do
- Avoid eating before bed
- Try over-the-counter antacids
If you still experience symptoms after these changes, it’s important to make an appointment with a medical professional as untreated acid reflux can sometimes lead to more serious conditions.
Your doctor may decide that you need prescription medications to treat your condition. In severe cases that don’t respond to other treatments, surgery may be recommended.
For additional information or to schedule an appointment with one of our experts, contact Ear, Nose & Throat Associates today.