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GERD Lifestyle Tips

Posted: April 1, 2006

If you have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, avoiding certain foods can help reduce your symptoms.

Foods associated with reflux events include:
- Citrus fruits
- Chocolate
- Drinks with caffeine
- Fatty and fried foods
- Garlic
- Onions
- Mint flavorings
- Spicy foods
- Tomato-based foods, like spaghetti sauce, chili, and pizza

These lifestyle changes also can help reduce reflux:
- If you smoke, stop.
- Do not drink alcohol.
- Lose weight if needed.
- Eat small meals.
- Wear loose-fitting clothes.
- Avoid lying down for 3 hours after a meal.
- Raise the head of your bed 6 to 8 inches by putting blocks of wood under the bedposts — just using extra pillows will not help.

Source: National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Disorders

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