Experts state that symptoms of Acid Reflux Disease occur when acid moves backward for the stomach into the esophagus. This happens due to the damaged or weakened Lower Esophageal Sphincter called as LES. In the case of normal people, this LES closes to keep the food from coming back up after it gets into the stomach.
Health care providers state that the foods that we consume will have an impact on the amount of acid produced by the stomach. When the unsuitable foods are consumed, they can directly irritate the esophagus and Heartburn. This is why, it is recommended that nutrition guide and appropriate diet are important considerations for patients with Acid Reflux Disease, which is also called as GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease for these type of disease patient can refer the Best Gastroenterologist Hospitals in India.
Customizing the Diet to Deal with GERD:
Many people with this health issue find that some foods trigger their symptoms to a great extent. These foods can cause irritation to the esophagus and even these foods can cause issues with the LES as well. This is why it is recommended that patients with acid reflux disease should discover the foods that can worsen their symptoms so that the disease can be kept under control. It is true that any particular diet cannot be stated as ideal for relaxing GERD symptoms, and all it takes is identifying the trigger for every individual patient. They are recommended to maintain a food diary with the following details:
- What are the foods consumed for each meal in a day
- At what time the foods are taken each day
- Any symptoms experienced
When they can maintain such a diary for a week, he/she can somewhat identify the triggers. This one-week diary might not be enough for people, who maintain a varied diet.
Foods that May Help in Bringing Down the Symptoms:
As mentioned earlier, there is no specific diet for GERD treatment. However, some foods may help in easing the symptoms. The patient can talk to the doctor if he/she has some questions about foods that should form part of the diet. For instance, a particular food that can ease the symptoms in an individual can worsen the same in another person. Here are some foods that can help:
Home Remedies for Acid Reflux
Probiotics and Yogurt:
Probiotics contain good bacteria and yogurt is an excellent probiotic food. Mayo Clinic states that probiotic foods may help in aiding the digestion and curing the acid reflux disease. Even, these foods can provide protection from harmful bacteria. Probiotics can address specific digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea caused due to antibiotics and some intestinal infections.
Studies show that increased fiber intake, particularly in the form of fruits and vegetables may help in protection against a number of digestive health issues inclusive of GERD. In addition to easing the symptoms of acid reflux, it will help in addressing high cholesterol, hemorrhoids and bowel problems and uncontrollable blood sugar.
Foods under the following categories are stated to be common triggers for patients with this issue:
So, it is recommended that these patients should keep away from these foods.