Diet for gastro-oesophageal reflux

Why does diet influence reflux?

La dieta en el Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) it doesn't just aim to avoid discomfort but to act on the factors that favour the appearance of symptoms.

Some foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing acid production or hindering digestion, making it easier for gastric content to pass into the oesophagus.

Por eso, una alimentaciĂłn adecuada ayuda a reduce acidity, improve digestion and decrease oesophageal irritation, contributing to better reflux control.

Diets are not the same in all cases.

Not all patients with Gastro-oesophageal reflux They react the same way to the same foods. What causes symptoms in one person may not affect another in the same way.

That is why, rather than following an excessively restrictive diet, the important thing is to identify which habits or foods worsen reflux in each case.

And GASTEIZ We value each patient's symptoms, frequency of reflux, and digestive situation to guide more personalised recommendations.

Recommended foods

They promote easy digestion and prevent increased acidity: 

  • Steamed or grilled vegetables
  • Non-acidic fruits such as apple, pear or banana
  • Lean proteins like chicken, turkey or white fish.
  • Reduced-fat dairy
  • Wholegrain cereals
  • Soft, well-cooked legumes
    Moderate use of olive oil.

Foods to avoid

They relax the lower oesophageal sphincter or stimulate acid production, which can lead to heartburn and regurgitation:

  • Coffee, tea, energy drinks, and carbonated soft drinks can increase acidity.
  • Alcohol, chocolate, mint, and very fatty foods also tend to aggravate reflux.
  • Citrus fruits, tomatoes, acidic, spicy sauces, and very seasoned or hearty dishes.

How to organise meals to reduce reflux?

Eat small, frequent meals, avoiding large intakes.

Do not lie down until 2-3 hours after eating.

Raise the head of the bed by 10 to 15 cm if symptoms are nocturnal.

Chew slowly and avoid eating in a hurry.

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce abdominal pressure.

Example menu for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) diet

Breakfast

  • Gentle infusion (chamomile or decaffeinated tea) or decaffeinated coffee with skimmed milk.
  • White bread toast with low-fat fresh cheese or a teaspoon of smooth, citrus-free jam.

Mid-morning

  • Unsweetened, skimmed natural yogurt or a piece of non-acidic fruit (apple, pear, or ripe banana).

Food

  • Grilled chicken or turkey breast, or steamed white fish.
  • Boiled white rice, pasta, or potatoes as a side.
  • Soft cooked vegetables (courgette, carrot or green beans).
  • Dessert: baked apple or fat-free yoghurt.

Afternoon snack

  • White bread toast with low-fat cooked ham or a small handful of Maria biscuits.
  • Gentle infusion without mint.

Dinner

  • Mild vegetable cream (courgette/zucchini or pumpkin) or light noodle soup.
  • Baked white fish fillet or omelette.
  • Side dish: mashed potato or white rice.
  • Dessert: fat-free natural yogurt.

Preguntas frecuentes

Fatty, fried, and spicy foods, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, fizzy drinks, and very large meals can trigger symptoms in many patients.
Not always. The important thing is to identify which foods worsen your symptoms and avoid unnecessary restrictions.
It depends on individual circumstances, but many people notice an improvement by maintaining proper habits consistently for several days or weeks.
In some cases yes, but if the symptoms are frequent, severe or persistent, it's advisable to have a specialised digestive assessment.

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