Diet to relieve from Acid Reflux (GERD)

By Patricia | May 28, 2009

GERD stands for Gastro-Esophagus Reflux Disease, commonly referred to as acid reflux. It can be colloquially explained as an inflammation of the alimentary canal (particularly the esophagus or food pipe), caused by a regurgitation or reflux of the stomach contents back to the esophagus. These contents, along with food particles, consist of acid, enzymes like pepsin, and digestive juices like bile. The acidic content of reflux leads to an inflammation of the esophagus and this chronic condition is called GERD. The regurgitation of stomach content is common in human beings, but GERD-afflicted individuals have a greater content of acid in reflux compared to other individuals.

Proper Diet To Relieve GERD

GERD can be cured in several ways such as maneuvering the body posture while sleeping by elevating the upper body above the stomach to avoid reflux, the consumption of antacids, or eating a specific GERD diet.

Some of the things that must be kept in mind when devising a diet for GERD are:

  • Meals should not be extra-filling.
  • Dinner may be eaten a bit earlier to allow it to get digested, so that the reflux is averted when the afflicted person lies down.
  • Smoking is strictly prohibited.
  • Fatty and fried foods must be avoided
  • Adding to your acid intake by drinking carbonated drinks or eating spicy foods should be avoided.
  • Alcohol and chocolates must be avoided too.
  • The affliction can be alleviated by avoided dairy products and eggs.
  • Your intake of sugar must be limited to a minimum.
  • Chewing gums must be avoided.
  • Citrus juice and tomato juice must be avoided.
  • Increase your consumption of water to neutralize the acid content of reflux.
  • Milk, if consumed, must be fat free.
  • Consuming ginger root extract after every meal is recommended.
  • Drinking water mixed with powdered cumin is also advised.
  • Increasing your intake of lemon, almonds, and cloves is also recommended.
  • Carrot juice may help relieve acidity.
  • Consuming banana with sugar and cardamom powder helps to cure the problem.
  • Drinking the milk of raw coconuts is highly recommended.

Obesity can also compound the problem. Regular exercise can help to reduce GERD, however, don’t exercise immediately after eating your meals. GERD can be controlled by following a strict dietary regime, eating your meals at regular scheduled timings, and maintaining proper body postures, particularly while sleeping. If the problem persists, do consult a doctor.

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