Diet and food habits for hiatal hernia
Avoid large meals that overly distend the stomach. Eat four or five small meals spread over the course of a day. In addition, try to avoid drinking carbonated beverages, which may increase discomfort. After eating, do not lie down, stoop, or bend over for at least an hour, because this may promote reflux. Do not try to eat or drink anything for at least 2 hours before going to bed at night, when attacks are most likely to occur. Avoid substances that relax the diaphragmatic muscle. Alcohol, including wine, is one such muscle relaxant; in particular, abstain from any alcoholic beverage in the evening. Avoid spicy and acidic foods. Eliminate foods that tend to irritate your stomach or provoke a bout of indigestion. The culprits vary from one person to another, but common offenders include spices, citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, garlic, pickles, and vinegar. Coffee in any form increases stomach acidity, as does tobacco. Chocolate and peppermint tend to relax the hiatal sphincter; fatty foods stay in the stomach longer than other foods and can also provoke indigestion. Small sips of water or a warm herbal tea may be useful when you feel a bout of regurgitation coming on, but avoid antacids that contain peppermint.
Eat lots of fiber and drink plenty of fluids. Constipation can worsen a hiatal hernia because straining distends the abdomen. Eat plenty of high-fiber foods, such as whole-grain cereals and breads, as well as fresh vegetables and fruits.
