What Should You Eat If You Have GERD?

While GERD can be treated with medication, there are also dietary changes that can reduce the frequency of your acid reflux and heartburn. Which foods are most likely to trigger acid reflux? Are there certain foods you should try to eat more often? Learn more about what you should and should not eat if you suffer from GERD.

Don’t eat too many fatty foods: Fat increases your GERD symptoms because it slows down digestion. Pay attention to how you prepare your food, opting for steaming, broiling or grilling instead of other cooking methods that increase the fat content of your meal. Choosing low-fat or fat-free dairy products instead of full fat varieties can also help keep reflux symptoms at bay.

Do eat plenty of fiber: Complex carbohydrates that contain fiber encourage proper digestion, which reduces the risk for GERD. Good sources of fiber include whole grain products and most varieties of vegetables. Fruit is also naturally high in fiber, but avoid acidic fruits like oranges that can worsen GERD.

Do eat lean proteins: Fish, chicken, turkey, lean cuts of beef and low-fat dairy products provide your body with protein without added fat. These types of protein are easily digested and may help strengthen the muscle tone of your lower esophageal sphincter, the valve responsible for preventing acid reflux.