Foods to eat if you have acid reflux

Acid reflux occurs when stomach contents travel back into the food pipe. A full stomach can increase upward pressure, while fatty meals may digest more slowly. Spicy foods, tomato, citrus, chocolate, mint, caffeine, fizzy drinks and alcohol bother some people but not everyone. Acid reflux can also be associated with a hiatus hernia or obesity, and symptoms may include cough, chest tightness, abdominal discomfort or difficulty sleeping.

Build meals around oats, rice, potatoes, vegetables, lean protein and non-acidic fruit when these suit you. Use a food and symptom diary instead of banning foods in advance. Eat slowly, keep portions modest and finish meals well before bedtime. Raise the head of the bed if night symptoms persist, and ask a clinician about treatment if lifestyle changes do not control symptoms.

Seek emergency help for chest pain or tightness with breathlessness, sweating, faintness, nausea or pain spreading to the arm, back or jaw. Arrange prompt assessment for food sticking, repeated vomiting, black stools, vomiting blood, unexplained weight change or persistent symptoms. A cough or sleep disruption that continues despite reflux measures also deserves review.

Which foods should I trial removing based on my diary? Could a hiatus hernia or another condition contribute? When should I consider medication or further assessment?