Acid reflux disease is where the liquid content of the stomach regurgitates to the esophagus. This sometimes results in heartburn or dysphagia and it can bring about discomfort, to many. Yet a few changes in eating habits can keep such symptoms to a minimum, and with this in mind, the acid reflux diet has been created.

One of the first things that followers of the acid reflux diet needs to bear in mind, is with regard to the portion size of food, consumed. It is recommended that large quantities of food be avoided at one sitting, and instead smaller sized meals should be consumed, more frequently, if required.  This is done so that the stomach is not over-burdened and to ensure that acid secretion, which is essential for digestion, is thus kept to a minimum.

Saturated fats are generally thought to be detrimental the health of most individuals. This is even more so in the case of those suffering from gastro-esophageal reflux disease. Fatty foods usually remain in the stomach for long periods, thus promoting the generation of stomach acids to help digestion, and such food is best avoided when following an acid reflux diet. Also, fatty foods promote obesity, which leads to increased reflux.

We all love certain foods. However, as decreed by the popular adage “too much of anything is good for nothing”.  This sentiment is re-iterated in the acid reflux diet, which strongly advises its followers to be wary of over-eating. Consuming food in excess will always encourage the stomach to generate more acid to aid digestion, and thereby worsen the discomfort of those suffering from gastro-esophageal reflux disease.

Alcohol, in excess, is known to cause liver damage. The acid reflux diet too, advises keeping the consumption of alcohol to a minimum. Beer is thought to be one of the worst offenders in this regard, as it greatly stimulates acid secretion. Tea, coffee and caffeinated beverages too, are best avoided wherever possible, if following an acid reflux diet.

Cigarette smoking should be avoided if the individual faces symptoms of acid reflux, as tobacco is known to weaken the esophageal muscles. Chewing gum and eating hard candy too are frowned upon, by those that promote the acid reflux diet, as such items inadvertently encourage the swallowing of air, which in turn results in belching and reflux.

The acid reflux diet recommends the consumption of complex carbohydrates, be it rice, bread, or cereal. Such food, binds excess stomach acid; thus minimizing the discomfort caused by acid reflux disease. Also, vegetables, lean meats and even most fruits can be consumed with few repercussions. Some, who find that the consumption of citrus fruits aggravate their condition, may need to avoid these, for best results.

Those suffering from gastro-esophageal reflux disease can minimize its symptomatic discomfort with a little know-how. The acid reflux diet provides much needed direction in this regard, and provides useful guidelines to those that have hitherto been at the mercy of acid reflux.

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