Foods To Avoid If You Have GERD

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, also known as GERD, is a digestive disorder in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. It often comes with heartburn, acid indigestion, stomach discomfort, and nausea. People who suffer from this condition can lower their symptoms significantly by eating foods that have a lower pH balance (lower acid levels). Here are some foods to avoid if you have GERD or other forms of acid reflux.

High Fat Foods
Foods with high levels of fat cause the weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and slow down the emptying of the stomach, allowing acid to move up into the esophagus. Avoid fried foods and extremely fatty meats like beef and pork.

Tomatoes & Citrus Fruits
Tomatoes and citrus fruits contain a high level of acid and therefore should be avoided for people who have acid digestion issues. Eating these types of foods will likely cause heartburn and general stomach discomfort.

Sugar & Caffeine
Chocolate is high in fat, which falls in the previously mentioned category, and is also high in sugar and caffeine. These two things contain stimulants like theobromine and methylxanthine which weaken the LES, slows stomach emptying, and cause acid reflux.

If you have GERD, creating a fulfilling, sustainable, and nutritional meal plan is important. If you are interested in receiving naturopathic treatment to improve your digestive health or would like a naturopathic meal plan to help you manage your GERD symptoms, Visit Dr. Cecilia Ho, a naturopath in Pickering today. Call Dr. Cecilia Ho at 905.492.8688 or email cecilia@ceciliaho.ca to get started today.