What dietary changes can help manage gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)?

Managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) often involves making specific dietary changes to minimize symptoms and reduce the frequency of acid reflux. Among these changes, avoiding trigger foods is particularly effective because certain foods can exacerbate the condition by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter or increasing stomach acid. Common trigger foods include spicy foods, citrus, chocolate, caffeine, and fatty meals. Identifying and eliminating these specific foods from one's diet can help reduce the incidence of GERD symptoms and improve overall digestive comfort.

In contrast, other dietary practices such as eating larger meals or not avoiding high-fiber foods may contribute to increased pressure in the stomach, which can worsen reflux. Similarly, lying down immediately after eating can allow stomach contents to flow back into the esophagus more easily, increasing the risk for GERD symptoms. Thus, avoiding trigger foods is a proactive approach to managing GERD effectively.