Summer is here, and odds are you’ve already busted the grill out and fired it up this season. Grilling is an American pastime, but it can cause problems if you have acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease. With that said, grilling doesn’t have to cause problems for your acid reflux if you are smart about the way you grill and eat. Below, we share four tips for preventing acid reflux-related problems when grilling or eating barbeque this summer.
Simplify Your Flavors
Exotic rubs and spices can be enticing, but don’t put too much zest on your plate. Spicier foods are more likely to lead to acid reflux flare ups. These spices stimulate nerves in your throat and esophagus, triggering reflux symptoms. Many individuals find that vegetable slices or plant-based rubs are less likely to trigger acid reflux problems compared to oil, vinegar or high-acid marinades. Trial and error is often the best way to test which spices are okay and which ones should be removed from the grilling rotation.
Drink Plenty of Water
Sodas and beer can contribute to the buildup of gas in your stomach, which can lead to burping and acid reflux. The carbonation in soda and beer promotes the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus and the expansion of your stomach, which leads to a reflexive increase in acid secretion. Water is going to be your best friend at a barbeque, because it works to naturally neutralize acid. Drink plenty of water when you’re at a summer barbeque.
Plan Ahead
If you know you’re going to be grilling or attending a barbeque well in advance, take some proactive steps to prevent against acid reflux. Take an antacid an hour or two before you plan to go, and bring more antacids with you if it’s going to be an all day event. If you have acid reflux, there’s no point in avoiding an antacid and waiting to see if acid reflux develops or not. Be proactive and assume it will so that you can take tangible steps to prevent it.
Timing Is Key
If you’re grilling out for supper, it’s pretty easy to time out the rest of the night. However, if you’re at a friend’s house for a late night grill session, or you’re attending a late night festival, be mindful of what you eat. It’s always a good idea to stop eating at least three hours before you plan to lay down for bed, because it’s easier for stomach acid to make its way back up into your esophagus if you’re lying down. Stomachs usually empty their contents within three hours, so if you can get the barbeque through the stomach before you lay down for the night, you’ll reduce your risk of a flare up when you’re trying to sleep.
If you’ve been dealing with more frequent acid reflux, or you just want to talk to a doctor about your symptoms, reach out to Dr. Koeplin’s office today.
