Gastroesophageal reflux (GER) is a medical condition that occurs when stomach contents flow back into the esophagus, causing discomfort or heartburn.

While there are many factors that can trigger GER, the food we eat plays a crucial role in controlling the symptoms. Some foods can aggravate GER, while others can help alleviate the discomfort. In this article, we will discuss what not to eat with gastroesophageal reflux.

Fried Foods

Fried foods are known to cause a variety of health problems, including GER. They are high in fat and can take a long time to digest, which puts a strain on the digestive system.

Fried foods can also cause the stomach to produce too much acid, which can trigger GER symptoms. If you’re struggling with GER, consider avoiding fried foods altogether or limit your intake to small portions.

Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can be a trigger for GER. They contain capsaicin, a compound that can irritate the stomach lining and cause acid reflux. If you love spicy food, try to reduce your intake or opt for milder versions of your favorite dishes.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a stimulant that can increase stomach acid production, which can trigger GER symptoms. Coffee, tea, and soda are the most common sources of caffeine.

If you’re suffering from GER, it’s best to avoid caffeinated beverages or limit your intake to small portions.

Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated beverages can lead to increased acid production in the stomach, which can exacerbate GER symptoms. Avoid drinking carbonated beverages, and opt for water or herbal tea instead.

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Alcohol

Alcohol can weaken the muscles that control the entry of the stomach contents into the esophagus. This can make GER symptoms worse. If you’re struggling with GER, consider reducing your alcohol intake or avoiding it altogether.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits are acidic, which can irritate the lining of the stomach and cause GER symptoms. Examples of citrus fruits include oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes.

If you’re struggling with GER, it’s best to avoid citrus fruits altogether or limit your intake to small portions.

Tomatoes and Tomato-Based Products

Tomatoes and tomato-based products can be acidic, which can trigger GER symptoms. This includes tomato sauce, ketchup, and tomato juice. If you’re struggling with GER, try to avoid tomato-based products or limit your intake to small portions.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains a chemical called methylxanthine, which can relax the muscles in the esophagus and cause GER symptoms. If you’re struggling with GER, it’s best to avoid chocolate or limit your intake to small portions.

High-Fat Foods

High-fat foods can take a long time to digest, which puts a strain on the digestive system and can exacerbate GER symptoms. Examples of high-fat foods include fatty meats, cheese, and butter.

If you’re struggling with GER, consider reducing your intake of high-fat foods or avoiding them altogether.

Mint

Mint can relax the muscles that keep stomach acid in the stomach, which can lead to GER symptoms. This includes mint tea, peppermint gum, and candies. If you’re struggling with GER, try to avoid mint or limit your intake to small portions.