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Acid Reflux And Food Problems

Filed under: Acid Reflux    

Knowing what foods to avoid for acid reflux sufferers is very important. The condition is very painful and ucomfortable and can result in damage to the esophagus if left untreated. By identifying and avoiding certain foods we can help prevent or treat acid reflux disease.  

Gastroesophageal reflux disease occurs when the sphincter found at the bottom of the esophagus does not close properly, allowing acids from the stomach to come up through the esophagus to the throat and mouth. The result is a persistent burning sensation in the chest and throat, and a sour taste in the mouth. It can become painful enough to wake you up at night, and keep you from relaxing after meals. Many foods and beverages can cause the sphincter in the esophagus to relax, which is why it is to your advantage to avoid those foods when battling acid reflux disease.

Since the types of food that can cause problems vary from person to person, a doctor may recommend that you keep a food diary to help you discover which foods act as triggers in your own digestive system. Often identifying the food to avoid for acid reflux disease is enough to keep your symptoms in check.

If dietary changes are effective, you can often avoid medications, surgery, and sometimes invasive procedures that will pinpoint the problem. That is why many doctors may recommend a new diet plan before continuing with further tests and treatment of acid reflux.

Besides a food diary that will help identify particular foods that might be offensive to an individual, there is a list of foods that commonly irritate acid reflux disease. Some acidic fruit juices, such as grapefruit juice and orange juice can be common culprits. Some meats and vegetables can also be a problem, so patients are often advised to refrain from foods like mashed potatoes, raw onion and ground beef.

Unfortunately for acid reflux sufferers, dairy products like ice cream and milk shakes are included on the taboo list, as are popular dished such as spaghetti with sauce and macaroni and cheese. The good news is that a patient that is finding relief from painful symptoms often doesn’t mind avoiding the foods that make acid reflux disease worse.

Eating a big meal can be a potential problem and should be avoided. Try not to lie down after eating, and try to eliminate fatty foods, chocolate, alcohol and coffee. These few modifications to your diet will help control and ease your acid reflux symptoms naturally without any unecessary medication.

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