10 Hidden Triggers of Acid Reflux
10 Hidden Triggers of Acid Reflux
Acidity is one of the most uncomfortable experiences. Some people go through it occasionally, while some people develop acute or chronic conditions that take a darker turn.
For instance, people suffering from acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) would be well aware of the discomfort. There are a set of symptoms that people with GERD struggle with, namely:
- Tooth decay
- Bad breath
- Difficulty swallowing
- Indigestion
- Abdominal pain
- Frequent burping
- Bloated feeling
- Burning sensation in the chest
- Nausea or even vomiting
Acid reflux occurs when the stomach acid flows back upwards into the tube of your mouth and stomach. If this happens in multiple episodes and frequently, it can irritate your stomach lining (esophagus), and cause severe symptoms as mentioned above.
Since, an acid reflux is a result of the foods we eat; in today’s blog, we’re here to talk about some foods that trigger an acid reflux. Most people are unaware of the foods that are harmful to their gut system. It is important to be aware, so let’s get right into it!
10 hidden triggers of acid reflux
You might be surprised at the foods that cause acid reflux. However, the more you know the safer and more alert you become.
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Sugar
Refined sugar is present in various sweet treats like cookies, donuts, etc. Sugary foods cause acid reflux symptoms in many people; some more than others. Sugar may not worsen symptoms immediately after consumption. Try to identify any effects somewhat 48 hours after consumption. That said, artificial sweeteners trigger an acid reflux too, so if you’re looking for something better then try Lo Han Berry extract, also called monk fruit. You could even try organic stevia.
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Processed Foods
Foods made from potatoes, corn, wheat (pasta and bread), and table salt, that is, sodium chloride can trigger a reflux episode in people suffering from GERD. Research has shown that diets high in processed salt (not mineral salts) increase the chances of developing GERD.
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Refined Oils
Who doesn’t love a good salad dressing? We’d recommend you take a step back when deciding which dressing isn’t harmful. Salad dressings, mayonnaise, vegetable oils, soybean oil, and canola oil go hard on the stomach, making it impossible to break down the omega-6 fatty acids.
If you’re looking for a good alternative, olive oil tops proves to be a better option.
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Fruit Juices
It’s not just orange juice and lemonade that cause an acid reflux. Apple and cranberry juices have the same effect because they are acidic and filled with rich sugar content.
Lemon juice without sugar may not cause discomfort for all people with reflux. However, the reflux stage at which you may be is already severe then you may experience irritation and ulceration. This means that if there is a cut resulting from extensive acid reflux, you will experience the symptoms. If there is no cut then you may drink lemon water, or use lemon dressing on salads, etc.
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Fried Foods
Fried foods are almost everyone’s favorite and comfort meal too. However, too much of fried foods eaten on a daily basis can be rough on the stomach. Your stomach may find it hard to break down the food, which leads to gastric distension. A gastric distension increases pressure on the sphincter at the top section of the stomach. This increased pressure causes the stomach to open and release acid upwards into the esophagus.
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Processed Meats
Ground beef, chicken nuggets, and chicken wings, among other processed meats can trigger acid reflux. So, keep these foods on the low in your diet.
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Dairy Products
Sour cream, cheeses, ice cream, and cottage cheese are high in unhealthy animal-based fats. This makes it difficult to break down when consumed. Their high lactose sugar content leads to high lactic acid content.
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Any Caffeine
Caffeinated beverages; let us stress upon it that ANY caffeinated beverage, including energy drinks, tea, coffee, and soda will cause irritation. They irritate the esophagus and allow more stomach acid to flow upward.
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Alcohol
Alcohol is your worst enemy if you are suffering from GERD. If not, we recommend that you go easy on it and have it sparingly.
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Carbonated Water
Carbonated drinks like sparkling water or seltzer, and colas cause gastric distension, which pushes acid into the esophagus.
Avoiding any of these foods that are on this list of hidden triggers can prove frustrating. However, the symptoms manifested can be a far worse scenario, which may automatically reduce your temptations.
It is essential to maintain a healthy diet and make sure that you gradually reduce your intake of the above foods. Your body deserves that kind of attention and nurturing.
If you want to know more about the foods that best meet your nutritional requirements, connect with our expert medical professionals at Dr2bThin.com.
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