Foods To Avoid When You Have Acid Reflux

Foods To Avoid When You Have Acid Reflux

One main thing to consider if you have an acid reflux is knowing what to eat. If you are experiencing this condition, you know that sometimes it is painful enough to either keep you awake or it can wake you up at night. Other times, this can keep you from relaxing after meals. Did you know that certain foods and even beverages can worsen the situation? Some foods can actually cause the sphincter in your esophagus to relax. It is important to avoid these foods when you are dealing with this condition.

A recommended thing to do is to keep a food diary to track down which food is actually causing this problem. More often that not, just being able to identify the foods to avoid is enough not to aggravate the symptoms. By doing this simple step alone may keep you from taking medications, or having surgery. This is also the reason why it is highly recommended to change your eating habits first before having further tests.

Aside from having a food diary to help determine the root cause of your acid reflux, there are foods that should be avoided to prevent further flare up of your condition. Acidic fruit juices, such as grapefruit and orange juice are common culprits. Try drinking green tea instead to help neutralize the acids in your stomach. Dairy products such as ice cream and milk shakes as well as macaroni and cheese and spaghetti with sauce. Mashed potatoes, ground beef, and raw onion are culprits as well. You should also avoid consumption of alcohol, fatty foods and chocolates. Try not to have big meals but rather opt for smaller meals instead so as not to "shock" your stomach. Oftentimes, these changes alone can save you from going through surgery or having to take medications for the rest of your life.