One great step in controlling acid reflux is through following an acid reflux friendly diet. This is an easy step that can seem initially hard because of the thought of giving up some of your favorite foods. Although acid reflux may seem like a mere inconvenience, it can lead to some very complicated problems if left untreated. So, taking steps to modify your diet for acid reflux control, and to also make other lifestyles changes that minimizes future health risks and your need to take prescription medications multiple times a year can be a wise choice. You don't have to give up everything you love, but there are some adjustments that can be made for the betterment of your health.

Fats: When you eat fatty foods, they tend to sit in your stomach longer, and that encourages your body to produce more acid to digest those fats. If you have food high in fat, keep that part of the meal small. Be aware that any fats may slow digestion, and if your reflux is flaring, avoid them as much as you can.

Milk: When indigestion strikes, many reach for milk to soothe the stomach. While milk does have a calming affect for many, it is not necessarily a good choice in your diet if you suffer from acid reflux. Drinking a glass of milk before bedtime is a common habit as milk can induce sleep, however when you sleep, milk can encourage your body to churn out more acid, leading to painful reflux symptoms. If you wish to drink milk, you should have it earlier in the day. Should you wish to have some at night, drink a small glass and accompany it with bread or any other high carbohydrate type of food. That will speed up digestion and minimize the potential of developing acid reflux symptoms.

Fried Foods: Eating fried foods, whether deep-fried or stir fried, is a common acid reflux trigger for many people. Fried foods can be one of the hardest to give up for a lot of people as they tend fried foods can be make up a large part of many people's favorite dishes, but there are alternatives that you'll find to be satisfying. Most foods that you would normally deep fry can also be cooked in the oven with minimal use of oil. Admittedly, they won't taste exactly the same, but you'll probably find they are more satisfying in a completely different way because of the reduced likelihood of triggering an acid reflux episode.

Carbonated Drinks: Sodas are a popular choice when it comes to beverages. However, for acid reflux sufferers it is best to think about eliminating these completely. The air in these drinks can contribute to burping, and can encourage acid to reflux into the esophagus. If you must drink soda, allow it go flat before drinking to reduce the impact of the carbonation. However, you'd be best to avoid soda altogether as many sodas also contain caffeine, another common acid reflux trigger. The best beverage to have is plain water.

Fruit: There are some fruits and fruit juices you can have when you modify your diet for acid reflux, but there are a few you should avoid. Most citrus fruits will stimulate acid production, and are common triggers, bringing on flare ups of acid reflux. Instead of having orange and pineapple, go for fruits that are not in the citrus category. Try bananas or berries and monitor your symptoms. You don't have to give up all fruits, but you may have to be more selective when choosing.