Unlock Nature’s Best - Discover Our Range of
Health Supplements.

Shop Now
close button

7-Day GERD Diet Meal Plan (Plus Snacks)

By PureHealth Research Feb 23, 2025

Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by our experts

Medically reviewed by 15 min read

Medically reviewed by 17 citations

Meal plan notebook with healthy food and a green drink on a wooden table.
Meal plan notebook with healthy food and a green drink on a wooden table.

Acid reflux and heartburn can make every meal feel like a challenge. If you’re one of the many people who experience these digestive issues, you know how they can affect your enjoyment of food and daily life. The good news? A carefully planned diet can help you feel better.

Our 7-day GERD diet plan offers simple yet effective ways to support your digestive health through smart food choices. We’ve created delicious GERD recipes using common ingredients you can find in any grocery store. This practical approach makes it easy to follow, whether you’re cooking at home or eating out. From breakfast to dinner (and yes, even snacks), you’ll learn how to make food choices that work better for your body. Let’s discover how the right meal plan can help you enjoy eating again while supporting your digestive comfort.

What is GERD?

Woman holding a bowl of healthy food with quinoa, salmon, and vegetables.

GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) occurs when stomach contents flow back into your esophagus, the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach. At the bottom of your esophagus sits a ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). When working properly, this muscle opens to let food into your stomach and closes to keep it there. In people with GERD, the LES becomes weak or relaxes when it shouldn’t, allowing stomach acid to move upward.

Think of your LES as a one-way valve. When this valve doesn’t close completely, it’s like having a faulty cap on a bottle – contents can splash back up, especially when you lie down or bend over.

GERD Triggers

Many foods can affect how your LES functions:

  • Fatty foods can weaken the LES muscle, making it less effective at keeping stomach contents down
  • Spicy foods may irritate the already sensitive esophagus lining
  • Acidic foods (like citrus and tomatoes) can increase stomach acid production
  • Caffeine and chocolate both relax the LES
  • Alcohol not only relaxes the LES but also increases acid production
  • Large meals put extra pressure on the LES
  • Late-night eating doesn’t allow gravity to help keep food down while you sleep

GERD Symptoms

The most common signs of GERD include:

  • A burning sensation in your chest (heartburn), especially after eating
  • Feeling like food is coming back up into your throat
  • Chest discomfort
  • Trouble swallowing
  • A sensation of a lump in your throat
  • Persistent cough
  • Hoarse voice, especially in the morning
  • Disrupted sleep when symptoms flare at night

These symptoms tend to worsen when lying down or bending over. Regular GERD episodes can irritate your esophagus over time, so it’s important to manage your symptoms through diet and lifestyle changes.

How Diet Impacts GERD

What you eat plays a crucial role in managing GERD symptoms. The relationship between food and acid reflux is direct and significant – certain foods can either strengthen or weaken the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), affecting how well it keeps stomach contents where they belong.

Think of your LES as a trapdoor. When you eat foods that weaken this muscle, it’s like loosening the hinges on that door, making it easier for acid to escape upward. High-fat foods, for instance, take longer to digest and can force the LES to stay open longer than usual. Meanwhile, acidic foods can increase stomach acid production, adding to the potential for backflow.

For additional digestive support, consider incorporating Gastro Health Formula into your daily routine. This natural supplement brings together three powerful ingredients: Licorice Root Extract, Rhodiola Crenulata Root Extract, and Quince Fruit Extract. Each one plays a special role in supporting your digestive comfort.

Product Image

13

Product Image

Gastro Health Formula

Say goodbye to heartburn, hello to relief! Gastro Health Formula’s unique blend soothes, repairs, and protects against acid reflux. Reclaim your life and enjoy food again. Shop now and experience the difference!

Try it Now

Gastro Health Formula

Say goodbye to heartburn, hello to relief! Gastro Health Formula’s unique blend soothes, repairs, and protects against acid reflux. Reclaim your life and enjoy food again. Shop now and experience the difference!

13

Try it Now

Gastro Health Formula

13

Say goodbye to heartburn, hello to relief! Gastro Health Formula’s unique blend soothes, repairs, and protects against acid reflux. Reclaim your life and enjoy food again. Shop now and experience the difference!

Try it Now

Think of this formula as a helping hand for your stomach. These ingredients are proven to help maintain proper stomach acid levels and support comfortable digestion. The natural ingredients have been used for centuries to promote digestive health, and now they’re available in one convenient supplement. Whether you’re just starting to make dietary changes or looking for ongoing support, Gastro Health Formula offers the natural assistance many people find helpful for maintaining digestive comfort.

Foods to Eat

Focus on these GERD-friendly options:

  • Lean proteins – Chicken, turkey, and fish digest easily and don’t overwork your stomach
  • Healthy fats – Small portions of avocado and olive oil provide nutrition without excessive fat
  • Non-citrus fruits – Bananas, melons, and apples offer natural sweetness without acid
  • Vegetables – Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, and carrots are gentle on digestion
  • Whole grains – Oatmeal, brown rice, and quinoa provide filling fiber that supports digestion

Foods to Avoid

Consider limiting these common triggers:

  • Deep-fried and fatty foods 
  • Citrus fruits and tomatoes
  • Spicy foods
  • Chocolate and mint
  • Carbonated beverages
  • Coffee and alcohol 
  • Onions and garlic 

Understanding these food impacts helps you make informed choices that support your digestive comfort throughout the day.

7-Day GERD (Acid Reflux) Diet Meal Plan

Looking for a practical 7-day GERD diet plan that’s both delicious and gentle on your stomach? Here’s a week of carefully planned meals that can help support your digestive comfort. Each day includes GERD diet recipes that are easy to prepare and satisfying. Feel free to adjust portions and ingredients based on your preferences.

Day 1

Infographic with a detailed day one meal plan featuring balanced meals.

Breakfast (350 kcal):

Creamy oatmeal topped with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey

  • 1 cup cooked plain oatmeal
  • 1 medium banana
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • Optional – splash of almond milk

Morning Snack (150 kcal):

1/2 cup low-fat yogurt with diced melon

Lunch (450 kcal): 

Grilled chicken breast salad

  • 4 oz grilled chicken
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil with herbs dressing

Afternoon Snack (200 kcal): 

12 almonds and a ripe pear

Dinner (650 cal):

Baked herb-seasoned salmon

  • 6 oz salmon fillet
  • 1 cup steamed broccoli
  • 3/4 cup brown rice
  • Seasoning – herbs, lemon juice

Day 2

Infographic showing meals for day two, including breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner.

Breakfast (400 cal): 

Two scrambled eggs with toast and avocado

  • 2 large eggs, scrambled with a splash of almond milk
  • 2 slices whole-grain toast
  • 1/4 avocado, sliced
  • Seasoning – herbs, black pepper

Morning Snack (150 cal): 

1 medium apple, sliced with 1 tablespoon almond butter

Lunch (500 cal): 

Turkey and avocado wrap

  • 4 oz sliced turkey breast
  • 1/4 avocado
  • Lettuce, cucumber
  • 1 whole-grain tortilla

Afternoon Snack (150 cal): 

1 cup baby carrots with 2 tablespoons hummus

Dinner (600 cal): Lean beef stir-fry

  • 5 oz lean beef strips
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
  • 3/4 cup quinoa
  • Seasoning – ginger, herbs

Day 3

Infographic showing meals for day three, featuring breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner.

Breakfast (350 cal): 

Green smoothie bowl

  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1/4 cup granola topping

Morning Snack (200 cal): 

2 rice cakes with 1 tablespoon almond butter

Lunch (450 cal): 

Tuna salad sandwich

  • 4 oz light tuna
  • 1 tablespoon light mayo
  • Diced celery, lettuce
  • 2 slices whole-grain bread

Afternoon Snack (150 cal): 

1 cup mixed melon cubes

Dinner (650 cal): 

Herb-roasted chicken

  • 6 oz chicken breast
  • 1 medium sweet potato
  • 1 cup steamed green beans
  • Seasoning – herbs, olive oil

Day 4

Infographic presenting day four meal plan with breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner.

Breakfast (400 cal): 

Yogurt parfait

  • 1 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1/4 cup low-fat granola
  • 1/2 cup mixed berries

Morning Snack (150 cal):

1/4 cup mixed unsalted nuts

Lunch (500 cal): 

Plant-based power bowl

  • 4 oz grilled tofu
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 cup roasted vegetables
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil dressing

Afternoon Snack (150 cal): 

Celery with 2 tablespoons light cream cheese

Dinner (600 cal): 

Baked white fish

  • 6 oz white fish fillet
  • 1 cup roasted potatoes
  • 1 cup asparagus
  • Seasoning – herbs, lemon

Day 5

Infographic showing meal choices for day five, including different food groups.

Breakfast (350 cal): 

Overnight oats

  • 1/2 cup rolled oats
  • 3/4 cup almond milk
  • 1 ripe peach, sliced
  • 1 tablespoon honey

Morning Snack (200 cal): 

1 medium banana with 1 tablespoon peanut butter

Lunch (450 cal): 

Vegetable soup bowl

  • 1 cup chickpea soup
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables
  • 6 whole-grain crackers
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Afternoon Snack (150 cal): 

1 low-fat string cheese with 15 grapes

Dinner (650 cal): 

Turkey meatballs

  • 6 oz turkey meatballs (baked)
  • 2 cups zucchini noodles
  • 1/2 cup light tomato-based sauce
  • Seasoning – basil, oregano

Day 6

Infographic displaying day six meal plan with a mix of healthy food options.

Breakfast (400 cal): 

English muffin morning

  • 1 whole-grain English muffin
  • 3 egg whites, scrambled
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Morning Snack (150 cal): 

Green power smoothie

  • 1 cup spinach
  • 1 small banana
  • 1 cup almond milk

Lunch (500 cal): 

Grilled chicken salad

  • 5 oz grilled chicken
  • 1 pear, sliced
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1 tablespoon light vinaigrette

Afternoon Snack (150 cal): 

6 rice crackers with 1 oz light cheese

Dinner (600 cal): 

Baked cod dinner

  • 6 oz cod fillet
  • 3/4 cup brown rice pilaf
  • 1 cup roasted carrots
  • Seasoning – dill, parsley

Day 7

Infographic of day seven meal plan with a variety of nutritious foods.

Breakfast (350 cal): 

Warm grain bowl

  • 1/2 cup steel-cut oats
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup
  • 2 tablespoons sliced almonds
  • 1/2 cup almond milk

Morning Snack (200 cal): 

Homemade trail mix

  • 2 tablespoons mixed nuts
  • 1 tablespoon dried cranberries
  • 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds

Lunch (450 cal): 

Turkey lettuce wraps

  • 4 oz sliced turkey
  • 1/4 avocado
  • Large lettuce leaves
  • 1 tablespoon light dressing

Afternoon Snack (150 cal): 

1 baked apple with cinnamon

Dinner (650 cal): 

Herb-roasted chicken

  • 6 oz grilled chicken breast
  • 3/4 cup quinoa
  • 1.5 cups roasted vegetables
  • Seasoning – rosemary, thyme

This 7 day GERD diet plan is flexible. Adjust portions and ingredients based on your needs while maintaining the principle of eating non-triggering foods. Always eat slowly and stop before feeling overly full.

Meal Prepping for a GERD Diet

Planning ahead makes following your GERD meal plan much easier. Smart preparation helps you avoid reaching for trigger foods when you’re hungry or short on time. Here’s how to set yourself up for success.

Cooking Methods That Work

Start with gentle cooking techniques that maintain food’s natural flavors without adding unnecessary fats:

  • Steam vegetables to keep them tender and digestible
  • Roast meats and vegetables with minimal oil
  • Grill lean proteins with herbs instead of heavy marinades
  • Bake with herbs and light seasonings
  • Use an air fryer for a crispy texture without excess oil

Smart Storage Solutions

  • Invest in glass containers with secure lids
  • Pre-portion meals into individual servings
  • Label containers with dates and contents
  • Use mason jars for overnight oats and parfaits
  • Keep cut vegetables in water to maintain freshness

Weekly Prep Routine

  • Wash and cut vegetables for quick access
  • Cook large batches of brown rice and quinoa
  • Prepare lean proteins like chicken and fish
  • Make dressings and sauces with olive oil and herbs
  • Portion out snacks into grab-and-go containers

Stock Your Pantry

Keep these GERD-friendly staples on hand:

  • Whole grains – brown rice, quinoa, oats
  • Lean proteins – canned tuna, chicken breast
  • Healthy fats – olive oil, avocados
  • Non-acidic fruits – bananas, melons
  • Vegetables – leafy greens, carrots, sweet potatoes
  • Herbs and seasonings – basil, oregano, thyme

Time-Saving Tips

  • Dedicate 2-3 hours on weekends for meal prep
  • Double recipes and freeze portions for later
  • Keep emergency meals ready for busy days
  • Prep breakfast items the night before
  • Store chopped herbs in ice cube trays with olive oil

Remember, successful meal prep for your 7-day GERD diet plan means less stress around mealtimes and better control over your ingredients and portions. Start small with basic prep tasks and gradually build your routine as you become more comfortable.

CTA banner showing gastro health formula supplement

Dining Out with GERD

Don’t let digestive concerns keep you from enjoying meals with friends and family. With some smart strategies and menu know-how, dining out can still be a pleasant experience. Planning ahead makes all the difference in having an enjoyable meal without discomfort later.

Before You Go

Take time to check the restaurant’s menu online before heading out. This simple step helps you identify GERD-friendly options and avoid feeling rushed when ordering. Consider making early dinner reservations when restaurants are less busy and kitchens can better accommodate special requests. A small snack at home can help prevent arriving overly hungry.

Making Smart Menu Choices 

When scanning the menu, look for keywords that indicate gentler cooking methods like “grilled,” “baked,” “steamed,” or “broiled.” Start with a simple green salad with dressing on the side. Lean proteins such as chicken, fish, or turkey usually make safe choices. Consider asking for extra vegetables instead of heavy sides that might trigger discomfort.

How to Order 

Clear communication with your server can make a big difference. Don’t hesitate to ask about having sauces and dressings served on the side or requesting dishes prepared with less oil. Many restaurants are happy to modify spice levels or substitute trigger ingredients. Be specific about your needs while remaining polite and appreciative of their efforts to accommodate you.

Simple Modifications

  • Request grilled items without added butter
  • Ask for lean meat to be well-done rather than rare
  • Choose baked potato over french fries
  • Swap cream-based soups for clear broths
  • Request no black pepper or minimal seasonings

What to Avoid

  • Buffets (which encourage overeating)
  • All-you-can-eat specials
  • Happy hour appetizers (often fried)
  • Late-night dining
  • Rushing through meals

Smart Strategies

  • Eat slowly and take small bites
  • Stop eating before feeling full
  • Remain upright for at least two hours after eating
  • Share large portions with dining companions
  • Save half for tomorrow’s lunch

Remember, most restaurants want to accommodate your needs, even when you are following a 7-day meal plan for acid reflux. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request modifications to make your dining experience more comfortable.

Lifestyle Changes and GERD Management

Infographic with lifestyle tips for GERD, including mindful eating and hydration.

Managing digestive comfort goes beyond following a 7-day acid reflux diet plan. Simple lifestyle adjustments, when combined with mindful eating habits, can make a significant difference in how you feel every day.

  • Mindful Eating Practices – Eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day helps reduce pressure on your digestive system. Try dividing your food into 5-6 light meals instead of three large ones. Take time to chew thoroughly and put your fork down between bites. This slower pace gives your body time to process food properly and helps you recognize fullness signals.
  • Timing Matters – The timing of your meals plays a crucial role in digestive comfort. Finish your last meal at least three hours before bedtime to give your body time to digest. If you get hungry late at night, try sipping on chamomile tea or having a small banana instead of a full meal.
  • Sleep and Rest – Your sleeping position can significantly impact nighttime comfort. Elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches using bed risers or a wedge pillow. This simple adjustment helps use gravity to keep stomach contents where they belong. Avoid lying down immediately after meals.
  • Hydration Habits – While staying hydrated is important, the timing of your fluid intake matters. Sip water between meals rather than with food to avoid overfilling your stomach. Consider having your last big drink about an hour before meals and waiting 30 minutes after eating before drinking more.
  • Stress Management – The mind-body connection plays a significant role in digestive health. Consider incorporating gentle activities like walking after meals, deep breathing exercises, or light stretching into your daily routine. Many people find that regular exercise, when done at least two hours after eating, helps maintain overall comfort.
  • Clothing Choices – Wear loose-fitting clothes, especially around your waist and stomach area. Tight clothing can put unnecessary pressure on your abdomen and contribute to discomfort.
  • Additional Support – Pay attention to your body’s signals and make note of what works best for you. Keep a simple journal tracking your meals and comfort levels to identify patterns. This information can be valuable for making adjustments to your routine.

Remember, these lifestyle changes work best when implemented gradually. Start with one or two modifications that feel most manageable, then slowly incorporate others as they become habits. The goal is to create sustainable changes that support your long-term digestive comfort.

Final Thoughts

Following a 7-day GERD diet plan is an important first step toward better digestive comfort. By making mindful choices about what and how you eat, you can create lasting positive changes in how you feel. Remember, this journey is about progress, not perfection.

The meal plans and recipes we’ve shared are just starting points – feel free to adapt them to your preferences while keeping the core principles in mind. Listen to your body and adjust portions and timing to find what works best for you. Small changes, like eating earlier in the evening or choosing gentler cooking methods, can make a significant difference in your daily comfort.

Remember, you’re not alone in managing digestive challenges. With the right combination of dietary choices, lifestyle adjustments, and supportive supplements, you can enjoy your meals with greater comfort and confidence.

Ready to start feeling better? Begin with day one of the meal plan tomorrow and take it one day at a time.

Which Foods Alleviate Gerd Symptoms?

Non-acidic fruits like bananas and melons, lean proteins such as chicken and fish, whole grains including oatmeal and brown rice, and green vegetables help support digestive comfort. Ginger and chamomile tea can also be soothing.

What’s a Gerd-Friendly Dinner Option?

Baked salmon with steamed broccoli and quinoa makes an excellent dinner choice. The lean protein digests easily, while vegetables and whole grains provide fiber without triggering discomfort. Season with herbs instead of spices.

What Makes a Good Lunch for Someone With Acid Reflux?

A turkey sandwich on whole-grain bread with avocado and lettuce makes an ideal lunch. Add cucumber slices and a side of melon for a complete meal that’s gentle on digestion.

Does Peanut Butter Trigger or Soothe Acid Reflux?

Natural peanut butter in small amounts (1-2 tablespoons) typically doesn’t trigger symptoms for most people. Choose smooth varieties without added oils or sugar, and pair with whole-grain bread or apple slices.

Is Rotisserie Chicken a Safe Choice for People With Gerd?

Plain rotisserie chicken, with skin removed, is generally safe. Choose breast meat over dark meat, and avoid any spicy seasonings. Remove excess fat and pair with steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

1.

Morgan, K. K. (2024). Gastroesophageal reflux Disease (GERD). WebMD.

https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/reflux-disease-gerd-1
2.

Tsai, C., et al. (2019). Long-Chain fatty acid receptors mediate relaxation of the porcine lower esophageal sphincter. Frontiers in Physiology, 10.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6554435/
3.

Clinic, C. (2024). The health risks of eating extremely spicy foods. Cleveland Clinic.

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/health-risks-of-spicy-food
4.

Ld, L. D. R. (2024). The 8 most acidic foods and their impact on your health. Verywell Health.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/acidic-foods-8729546
5.

Chocolate and acid reflux: What’s the link? (2023).

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325318
6.

Chen, S., Wang, J., & Li, Y. (2010). Is alcohol consumption associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease? Journal of Zhejiang University SCIENCE B, 11(6), 423–428.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2880354/
7.

Restivo, J. (2023). 9 GERD symptoms to know. Harvard Health.

https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/9-gerd-symptoms-to-know
8.

Herdiana, Y. (2023). Functional food in relation to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Nutrients, 15(16), 3583.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10458865/
9.

Sadra, A., et al. (2017). Gastroprotective and gastric motility benefits of AD-lico/Healthy GutTM Glycyrrhiza inflata extract. Animal Cells and Systems, 21(4), 255–262.

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6138315/
10.

Labachyan, K. E., et al. (2018). The impact of Rhodiola rosea on the gut microbial community of Drosophila melanogaster. Gut Pathogens, 10(1).

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5861609/
11.

Shakeri, A., et al. (2018). A comparative study of ranitidine and quince (Cydonia oblonga mill) sauce on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) in pregnancy: a randomised, open-label, active-controlled clinical trial. Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 38(7), 899–905.

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29553843/
12.

Marcin, A. (2024). What foods are easy to digest? Healthline.

https://www.healthline.com/health/easy-to-digest-foods
14.

Ld, L. D. R. (2022). Is it better to eat several small meals or fewer larger ones? Medical News Today.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/is-it-better-to-eat-several-small-meals-or-fewer-larger-ones#The-best-diet-for-optimal-health
15.

Peters, B., MD. (2024). Is eating before bed bad for you? Verywell Health.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/eating-before-bed-3014981
16.

Albarqouni, L., et al. (2021). Head of bed elevation to relieve gastroesophageal reflux symptoms: a systematic review. BMC Family Practice, 22(1).

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7816499/
17.

Lucchetti, L. (2023). What exercises can help digestion?

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/exercises-to-help-digestion#does-it-help
Popular Articles

Advertisement. This site offers health, wellness, fitness and nutritional information and is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have read on this site. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk.