Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), also known as silent reflux, is a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the throat and voice box.

Unlike the typical heartburn associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), LPR primarily affects the upper airway, causing various symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough, throat irritation, and difficulty swallowing.

Understanding Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

LPR occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter, a muscle that normally prevents the backflow of stomach acid, malfunctions.

This allows the acid to reflux or “leak” into the throat and larynx, leading to inflammation and damage to these delicate tissues.

Factors that can contribute to the development or worsening of LPR include:.

Eating acidic or spicy foods
Consuming carbonated or caffeinated beverages
Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
Being overweight or obese
Pregnancy
Certain medications, such as antihistamines, antidepressants, and sedatives
Hiatal hernia

Diet Tips to Manage Laryngopharyngeal Reflux

While medication and lifestyle changes are often recommended for managing LPR, adopting a reflux-friendly diet can significantly reduce symptoms and promote healing. Here are some diet tips to fight back against laryngopharyngeal reflux:.

Avoid Trigger Foods

Certain foods are known to trigger or worsen LPR symptoms. These include:.

Acidic fruits and juices (e.g., oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
Tomatoes and tomato-based products
Spicy foods
Chocolate
Peppermint
Caffeinated and carbonated beverages
Alcohol
Fatty and fried foods
Processed snacks and fast food

Avoiding or minimizing the consumption of these trigger foods can help manage LPR symptoms effectively.

Choose Reflux-Friendly Foods

While it’s important to avoid trigger foods, there are plenty of reflux-friendly options that can be incorporated into your diet. These include:.

Non-acidic fruits and juices (e.g., apples, pears, melons)
Vegetables (except for trigger vegetables like onions, garlic, and peppers)
Lean proteins (e.g., chicken, turkey, fish)
Whole grains
Low-fat dairy products or alternatives
Healthy fats (e.g., avocado, olive oil)
Non-caffeinated herbal teas

Incorporating these reflux-friendly foods into your daily meals can help soothe the irritated tissues and promote healing in the throat and larynx.

Opt for Smaller, Frequent Meals

Instead of having three large meals a day, opt for smaller, more frequent meals. This helps prevent excessive stomach distension, which can contribute to the backflow of stomach acid.

Additionally, consuming meals slowly and chewing food thoroughly can aid in digestion and reduce the risk of reflux.

Manage Portion Sizes

Overeating can put additional pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to reflux. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid consuming large amounts of food in one sitting.

Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues to guide your meal sizes.

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is essential for the optimal functioning of the digestive system. Ensure you drink an adequate amount of water throughout the day to help dilute stomach acid and promote healthy digestion.

However, avoid drinking large amounts of fluids with meals, as it can increase stomach distension and contribute to reflux.

Elevate the Head of Your Bed

During sleep, gravity can worsen the symptoms of LPR. Elevating the head of your bed by approximately 6 to 8 inches can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back up into the throat and larynx.

This can be achieved by placing blocks under the legs of the bed or using a wedge pillow.

Practice Mindful Eating

Eating in a relaxed environment and practicing mindful eating techniques can aid in better digestion and reduce the risk of reflux. Avoid eating meals hastily or while stressed. Instead, take your time to enjoy your food, chew slowly, and savor each bite.

Pay attention to your body’s signals of hunger and fullness.

Avoid Late-Night or Bedtime Snacks

Consuming food shortly before lying down can increase the likelihood of acid reflux. To reduce the risk, avoid eating snacks or heavy meals within a few hours of bedtime. Allow your body sufficient time to digest before lying down.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight can contribute to the development or worsening of LPR symptoms.

Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help alleviate the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter and reduce the occurrence of acid reflux.

Conclusion

Laryngopharyngeal reflux can significantly impact one’s quality of life and vocal health. By making simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, you can effectively manage the symptoms and promote healing.

Avoiding trigger foods, choosing reflux-friendly options, practicing mindful eating, and maintaining a healthy weight are all valuable steps towards fighting back against laryngopharyngeal reflux.