Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic condition with no definite cure yet. And this is why paying the utmost attention to what you eat must be considered. Consuming medication for a long time can have side effects that can increase GERD symptoms; moreover, lifestyle modifications as well as the food we eat play a huge part in managing GERD. Here are some dietary tips on what to eat and what to avoid reducing GERD symptoms.

1. Foods to Avoid
Avoid these foods if you suffer from GERD

• Fried Foods
  fried foods that are high in fat loosen the esophageal valve, thereby letting food sit in the stomach for longer. These foods also relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which is a risk factor for GERD, as it causes the stomach acid to escape from the stomach into the esophagus and cause heartburn.
• Raw Onions and Garlic Cloves
  Both these herbs are carminative and frusta, which means they cause the intestines to absorb water, leading to discomfort, bloating, and acidity in the esophagus.
• Spicy Foods
  Spicy foods contain capsaicin, which can slow the digestion rate, making the food stay longer in the stomach. If food stays longer in the stomach, it is a risk factor for heartburn. Spicy foods can also irritate an inflamed esophagus and worsen heartburn symptoms. It is best to reduce the intake of spicy foods if you have heartburn and GERD.
• Canned and Processed Foods
  The higher the level of processing in food, the more acidic it is due to the chemicals used to preserve it. Canned soups, vegetables, and fruits should be avoided, especially if they are fermented or pickled.

2. Foods to Include
Many foods can help to relieve symptoms of heartburn and soothe GERD. Some of the foods, which combat heartburn by either preventing it or reducing it, are

• Ginger
  Ginger is proven to alleviate heartburn due to GERD. Keep sliced or grated ginger with you to steep in hot water or to chew on directly. It’s a time-tested treatment, and that’s why ginger ale was popular to fight an upset tummy.
• Parsley
  A fantastic remedy for heartburn, which can be grown in your windowsill or back yard. Parsley can be chewed on raw as it has a clean and peppery taste, which is palatable. It has a natural aromatic flavor. Carry parsley with you if you are prone to heartburns and chew on a few leaves whenever acid reflux and heartburn strike due to GERD.
• Avocado
  Avocado, besides being a powerhouse of healthy nutrients, is suited to relieve heartburns. The healthy fats in this fabulous fruit soothe and heal the digestive system by reducing the acidity levels.
• Aloe Vera
  Aloe vera is known to relieve sunburns; the same plant is not only cosmetically proven; it is a great natural plant that can be consumed to heal the stomach. Aloe Vera juice is a healing drink that reduces the acidity levels in the stomach. Aloe Vera gel is available in stores. Try to get the natural ones without any flavor added to them.