GERD stands for gastroesophageal reflux disease. It is commonly experienced by people twice a week. When the stomach acid regularly flows back to the esophagus tube, it is called GERD. This medical condition can be treated with medications and lifestyle changes. In rare cases, surgery is required to be relieved of the symptoms.

Symptoms

The symptoms of GERD can be categorised into the following:

1. Common symptoms

• Chest pain
• Burning sensation in the chest
• Regurgitation of sour liquid
• Regurgitation of food
• Feeling of a lump in the throat

1. Symptoms occurring in the night
   People who suffer from night time acid reflux experience the following symptoms too along with the regular symptoms.

• Disturbance in sleep
• Laryngitis
• Chronic cough

Foods to eat for GERD

Though eating the below mentioned foods will not completely cure the disease, it can ease the symptoms of GERD.

1. Ginger
   As ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, it can be used by people suffering from GERD to sooth the feeling of heartburn. You can add ginger in your tea or meals.
2. Oatmeal
   A constant as a breakfast option in many households, oatmeal contains a good quantity of fiber in it and good to treat GERD.
3. Whole-grain foods
   Whole grain food items like whole grain rice and whole grain breads are also high in fiber levels and good to health the symptoms of this medical condition.
4. Vegetables
   Vegetables aid in the reduction of stomach acid as they have low quantities of sugar and fat. Examples are broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, leafy vegetables.
5. Egg whites
   Egg yolks can be responsible for causing acid reflux. Hence opt for egg whites which are a healthier option as it does not cause acid reflux.
6. Non-citrus fruits
   In comparison to citrus fruits like oranges, non-citrus foods do not cause acid reflux in the person ingesting them. Examples are banana, pears etc.
7. Unsaturated oils
   Cook meals in unsaturated oils as they are healthier and do not cause acid reflux.
8. Lean meats and seafood
   Seafood and lean meat like chicken and fish reduce the symptoms of GERD as they contain low fat.

Foods to avoid for GERD

1. Saturated fats
   Avoid to prepare your meals in saturated fats as they can cause acid reflux. Use oils made of unsaturated fats instead.
2. Citrus fruits
   Citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits can lead to acid reflux and hence should be avoided if you suffer from the condition on a regular basis.
3. Spicy food
   Spicy foods can also cause acid reflux. Hence, reduces the quantity of spicy food consumption.
4. Tomatoes
   Tomatoes have the potential to produce GERD symptoms and should be avoided if you suffer from this medical condition. Also, tomato sauce should be completely avoided if you suffer from this medical condition as it can easily trigger the symptoms.
5. Caffeine
   People suffering from GERD should reduce their caffeine intake as caffeine can trigger the symptoms of the disease quite easily.
6. Chewing gum
   Chewing gums can easily trigger the symptoms associated with GERD. Hence, it should be avoided by patients suffering from GERD.