Meals

• Most people with acid reflux notice that their symptoms are worse immediately after eating a meal, probably because the stomach becomes enlarged and the esophageal sphincter is more likely to open and allow stomach contents to move back up. To help prevent this, eat smaller meals more often so your stomach does not become so distended. It's also a good idea to avoid eating within a few hours of going to bed because reflux often is worse when people lie down.
  
  

Foods to Avoid

• Certain foods and beverages are known to make acid reflux worse because they decrease the pressure in the esophageal sphincter. Alcoholic and caffeinated beverages, along with peppermint and chocolate, should be avoided or eaten in very limited amounts by people with reflux. Fatty foods also can be an irritant. If you find that greasy or fatty foods make your symptoms worse, avoid them for a while to see if your condition improves.
  
  

Trigger Food

• People with acid reflux often notice over time that particular foods make their symptoms worse, and it's best to avoid these foods. Common culprits include spicy foods, acidic foods, such as citrus and tomatoes, and carbonated beverages.
  
  

Gum

• Chewing gum actually can be beneficial for people with acid reflux because it causes the body to make more saliva, which contains bicarbonate to neutralize the acid in the stomach and esophagus. If you regularly experience reflux after eating a meal, chew gum immediately after eating to see if you notice less heartburn or a decrease in symptoms.