People with GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) have several different options in an effort to gain better symptom control.  That nasty stomach acid creeping up into the esophagus, or acid reflux, can cause excruciating heartburn pain and indigestion and be even worse in people with a hiatal hernia or peptic ulcer.  Nighttime symptoms may seen particularly worse in some patients as well.  Therefore, the best form of treatment is to be proactive in thought and comply with certain diet restrictions and recommendations.

Before we get into the needs of GERD diets, special consideration should be given to lifestyle modifications as well.  Avoiding heavy meals and eating fewer smaller meals is a great benefit.  Your stomach will have time to properly breakdown the food particles without being overstuffed.  Maintaining an upright position during and after meals is important for digestion too.  Also, try to refrain from wearing tight fitting clothing.  These measures will decrease pressure in the abdominal area and decrease the likelihood of acid reflux and related symptoms. 

Below you will find a list of good and bad foods broken down by category to use as a guideline in creating your own diet for GERD plan:

GERD sufferers should treat the above reference as a guideline only.  Patients with GERD need to find the best combination of good foods to suit their needs and limit their symptoms.  One person may be able to enjoy a glass of orange juice in the morning and the same glass may cause terrible pain for another.  This list is not meant to be used as a replacement for treatment of any disease or ailment and will not cure your GERD.  If your symptoms continue 2 or more times a week on a routine basis, it is recommended to seek the advice of a professional health care provider to make sure there is no underlying condition needing further treatment.