Hiatal Hernia Diet
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach extends across the chest. Hiatal hernia and gastroesophageal reflux are common conditions in people over 50 years of age. Some factors, such as obesity, can promote their development, such as aging and cigarette consumption. Here we provide the best hiatal hernia diet.
One of the most important and difficult symptoms of hiatal hernia is acid reflux or regurgitation, which leaves a burning sensation that runs from the stomach to our throat.
Gastroesophageal reflux can be a very troublesome symptom and is often the symptom that leads to the diagnosis of hiatal hernia diet. Although many people use antacids to soothe the symptoms associated with reflux, this is not recommended as digestion is compromised and may hide other symptoms. Therefore, it is best to follow the instructions of the medication and avoid misuse of antacids.
General recommendations
Some medications strengthen muscles that prevent reflux from occurring, and there is also surgery to correct the hiatal hernia. Still, proper nutrition and some recommendations can help fight reflux.
Lose weight if you are overweight
- Avoid large meals; you should divide your food intake into smaller meals throughout the day, i.e., five times lighter meals instead of just three abundant ones.
- Avoid accompanying your meals with drinks; you can drink liquids half an hour before eating, or even during the day, but not with eating.
- Do not take a nap, or lie down after eating, wait at least 1 hour before going to bed, and preferably two hours.
- Avoid large liquid meals or broth as they can promote reflux.
- Do not try to bend down after eating.
- Raise your bed 5 to 10 inches in the part of your head so that gravity prevents reflux.
- Do not try to do physical activity immediately after eating.
