Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, is a condition whereby acid-containing gut juices come into the esophagus from the stomach. The lower part of the esophagus contains a valve at the end, called the lower esophageal sphincter, or LES for short, which opens in order to let the food we eat get into the belly, and then shutting to keep the gastric juices and food in the stomach. When this valve relaxes too frequently or does not shut properly, it can lead to the stomach juices getting into the esophagus, which isn’t provided to handle the acidic matter. When this occurs it leads to the tell tale signs of heartburn, with a burning sensation in the area.
While most people may experience heartburn occasionally, if it continues for too long, despite making changes in the diet as well as treatment, it might mean acid reflux illness, also referred to as GERD. When the esophagus is exposed steadily to the acidic juices of the gut, it can become irritated and even damaged, leading to erosive esophagitis, or inflammation of the esophagus. What are the Foods to Avoid to Control Acid Reflux?
However,the condition can be improved by finding out about what foods to avoid, and making the required diet changes thus. Naturally you will need to consult your doctor before making any extreme diet changes, and also invent a plan that you know you can adhere to over the long-term.
Some of the common foods that are known to cause heartburn, which leads to acid reflux disease, are : dairy foods such as milk, cheese, yogurt, milk shakes, and ice cream ; spicy foods ; garlic and onions ; high-carb foods like bread, macaroni, and spaghetti ; fried foods ; chocolate ; alcoholic beverages ; caffeinated beverages ; meat ; mash ; spearmint and peppermint ; and tomato-based foods.
The best way to find out which foods do trigger off acid reflux symptoms is to maintain a food diary, jotting down the food that do cause the symptoms.
Also, it is best to avoid eating large meals, and instead have smaller meals more number of times in a day. In addition, it is also recommended not to go to bed right after a meal. A 3rd tip that you can try to alleviate the symptoms is to raise the head of your bed.
For more information about acid reflux disease and remedies, visit chronic heartburn and What Causes Acid Reflux.