Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Diet

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition in which the acidic contents of the stomach enter the esophagus and sometimes mouth. This occurs as a result of a hiatal hernia, a loose muscle flap (called esophageal sphincter) between the esophagus and stomach, increased abdominal pressure or recurrent vomiting. Symptoms of GERD may include heart burn, chest discomfort, bitter taste at the back of the mouth, vomiting or difficulty swallowing.

General Guidelines

Foods and Beverages to Avoid:
* Citrus Fruits and Citrus Juice – Orange, grapefruit, tangerine, pineapple, lemon and lime
* Tomatoes, Tomato Juice, Tomato Sauces, and Ketchup
* Vinegar
* High-Fat Foods
– Fried foods and creamed foods
– Snack foods such as chips and buttered popcorn
– High-fat meats such as bacon, spare ribs, hot dogs, sausage, bologna, salami, fried chicken, and fried fish
– Excessive salad dressings, gravy, cream, dip, butter/margarine/oil
– Desserts such as cream pies or ice cream
– Whole milk and 2% reduced fat milk
* Carbonated beverages such as soda pop
* Caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, Coke®, Pepsi®, Surge®, Mountain Dew®
* Alcoholic beverages and second hand tobacco smoke
* Chewing gum or candies containing peppermint or spearmint
* Chocolate
* Avoid eating large meals – Eat six small meals a day instead of three large meals
* Lose weight if overweight
* Avoid tight clothing such as blue jeans and belts
* For Children: Do not lie down immediately after eating, wait three hours
* For infants: Keep head elevated during feeding and for three hours following feeding by using an infant seat
* Elevate the head of the bed six inches to prevent reflux when sleeping

Note: Whole and 2% reduced fat milk should not be restricted in children less than 2 years of age