The first thing you’ll get from your doctor will be a list of acid reflux foods to avoid. But it is important to understand that acid reflux is often caused by certain foods. Foods that cause acid reflux typically increase the production of acid in the stomach or cause gastric pressure. When you suffer from symptoms such as heartburn and upset stomach, there are certain acid reflux foods to avoid. By avoiding these foods, you can help keep your acid reflux under control.
While certain people may not experience symptoms of acid reflux by eating or drinking the following foods, many people do claim to suffer from acid reflux symptoms after ingesting the following foods. However, each situation is different, and it is best if you keep a food diary to determine what foods you should and should not eat.
Key Acid Reflux Foods to Avoid by Groups
Vegetables and Grains
Vegetables are healthy, however, certain vegetables are known to irritate acid reflux. Raw onions are known to irritate acid reflux, as well as potatoes. Onions irritate acid reflux by increasing the production of acid in the stomach. Certain grains found in pastas such as spaghetti or macaroni noodles can also contribute to acid reflux.
Fruits
Many fruits are naturally acidic. Fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, and tomatoes can all cause stomach upset or other acid reflux symptoms. The acidity levels in these fruits contributes to the stomach acid, which flows into the esophagus, which causes pain and discomfort.
Meats
People who suffer from acid reflux should avoid fatty meats. Chicken nuggets, ground chuck, and spiced meats such as buffalo wings all contain high fat content. When meat contains high fat content, the body must produce additional enzymes to break down the fat. The additional production of enzymes can cause acid reflux and symptoms.
Dairy Foods
While many people take calcium tablets to get rid of heartburn or indigestion, dairy foods such as milkshakes, ice cream, and cottage cheese may actually increase heartburn or other symptoms associated with acid reflux. Dairy products contain lactose. Lactose is sugar content. The sugar content in dairy products causes the body to increase digestive enzyme production, which causes acid reflux and symptoms.
Dessert Foods
Dessert foods are a large culprit of acid reflux. Foods such as chocolate cake, brownies, doughnuts, or other sweet foods should be avoided as much as possible. The reason dessert frequently cause acid reflux is due to the sugar content. Sugar increases digestive enzyme production, which causes heartburn or other acid reflux symptoms. Chocolate is also another food that should be avoided. Chocolate is naturally acidic and increases stomach acid production.
Acid Reflux: Other Foods to Avoid
Certain people may also experience acid reflux from other foods such as bread, chips, greasy and salty foods, certain cereals, and oatmeal may also contribute to acid reflux. People who suffer from acid reflux should also consider cutting the alcohol intake. Alcohol is known to contribute to heartburn and upset stomach.
When you take out the foods that are most likely to cause acid reflux symptoms, you can help keep your acid reflux under control. When you suffer from stomach upset, heartburn, and other issues, you must learn that there are certain acid reflux foods to avoid.
