What is a Recommended Diet for GERD?

Identify the foods that trigger your GERD so that you can minimize your symptoms.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is a condition where stomach acid repeatedly moves up into your esophagus and causes a burning sensation in your throat or chest. While stomach acid is meant to remain in your stomach, the valve that prevents it from exiting the stomach can weaken and cause the acid to move into the esophagus. General Surgeon Michael Murray, MD, Northern Nevada Medical Group, provides insight on dietary changes that may help ease some of the symptoms.

What foods should be avoided?

There are recommended diet changes to help lower the severity of GERD symptoms. It is important to identify the foods that trigger your GERD so that you can minimize your symptoms. While each person’s trigger foods can differ, there are foods you should minimize or avoid entirely. They include:

• High-fat foods
• Caffeine
• Chocolate
• Onions
• Peppermint
• Carbonated beverages
• Alcohol
• Citrus and tomato products

How can diet changes alleviate symptoms of GERD?  

Overeating is a common behavior that can cause acid reflux and eventually GERD. When overeating, the valve that keeps the acid in the stomach stretches. Over time, the valve weakens and can no longer keep the acid contained. This can cause a burning sensation in the throat or chest.

Another suggested change is to avoid eating immediately before bed. The reclined/sleeping position can cause stomach acid to travel up the esophagus. Although timing can differ from person to person, it is strongly suggested to not eat a full meal less than three or four hours before bed.

If you think you may be suffering from GERD, take the self-assessment to determine if you might benefit from therapeutic intervention. Bring the completed form to your appointment or email to [email protected].

Learn more about heartburn and acid reflux services at Northern Nevada Health System