Enjoy the “wow” without the “ow”
A GERD diagnosis doesn’t mean your foodie life is over. There are plenty of foods to enjoy while minimizing your risk for aggravating your GERD. A few tips to keep in mind, regardless of what you eat, is how you eat. For example, avoiding large, late meals will do you a world of good. Try to allow at least 3 hours between your last meal or snack and bedtime. Taking a short walk after eating will help stimulate digestion and keep the system moving.
Don’t forget that not all foods trigger all people. It’s smart to keep a food journal. You may feel better if you avoid a lot of caffeine, carbonated beverages, chocolate, alcohol, citrus and tomato products, and fatty foods. That’s not to say that you can never have these things, just be smart and consume in moderation.
If this sounds like a lot of hassle, take heart: GERD diets can be user-friendly and delicious. We’ve collected some of our top recommendations for you to help make the best—and tastiest—GERD diet choices.
1. Fruits and Vegetables, Even Potatoes
Avoid citrus and citrus juices, but open your table to a smorgasbord of others. Go for fresh, in-season stock and make sure they are prepared perfectly. For example, it’s hard to get excited about a can of asparagus, but roasted with a bit of olive oil and sea salt? Take a new approach with the classics and your taste buds may thank you.
2. Eggs
Eggs have plenty of protein and are super versatile. Have them scrambled, in a frittata, or make yourself an omelet. Skip the onions but add other GERD diet-friendly add-ins such as low-fat cheese, mild turkey sausage, spinach, zucchini, or whatever the fridge has in store for you. Using a non-stick pan will help you reduce the oil you’ll need to prepare this breakfast of champions.
3. Fish and Lean Meat
If you are a meat eater, carry on! Just be sure to go for lean cuts. Skip frying and poach, grill, broil, or bake your fish or lean meat and your heart will thank you too.
4. Carbs
A good GERD diet can include complex carbohydrates. Oatmeal, whole grain bread, rice, and couscous are good sources of healthy complex carbs. Bonus: whole grains and brown rice add fiber to your diet and help keep your digestive system on track.
If you are not sure how to put this all together, we recommend visiting our GERD education page where you will find resources including a video, other lifestyle modifications for alleviating symptoms, and a GERD assessment.
At GI Associates, we can help you manage your GERD so you can live a more comfortable life. Give us a call at 877-442-7762 to make an appointment today.