Reflux Diet Information
Symptoms of acid reflux or GERD may include abdominal pain, belching, sour taste, nausea or chest pain. If you and your doctor have decided that gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD is the cause of your symptoms, diet and lifestyle modifications may help.
General Dietary Guidelines
- Eat small, frequent meals.
- Drink fluids between meals, not during them.
- Focus on low-fat, high-protein foods.
- Stop eating before you get too full.
Avoid beverages which may worsen your reflux symptoms:
- Coffee
- Mint and/or caffeinated teas
- Other caffeinated beverages such as energy drinks
- Soda, seltzer and other carbonated beverages
- Alcohol
Avoid trigger foods which may worsen your GERD symptoms:
- Citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons
- Tomatoes including tomato sauce and salsa
- Chocolate
- Mint or peppermint
- Fatty or spicy foods such as chili or curry
- Onions and garlic
- Dairy products
- Any foods that cause symptoms
General Lifestyle Modifications to Reduce Symptoms
- Maintain a healthy body weight, or lose weight if your doctor recommends.
- Quit smoking: Smoking may increase your risk for heartburn as it may increase the amount of acid secreted by your stomach.
- Avoid lying down after meals and eating within 2-3 hours of bedtime. Elevate your head while you sleep with a pillow or wedge.
- Wear loosely fitting pants and belts.
Keep in mind that everyone is different and what is tolerated by one person may not be by another. Work with our dietitian to evaluate your diet and ensure adequate and appropriate nutrition. If symptoms persist, please consult with your doctor as you may require medication or further evaluation. For more details on what foods might be considered trigger foods for acid reflux or GERD, and how to prevent or alleviate symptoms of GERD and acid reflux, download our Reflux Diet PDF.