Is Baked Ziti & Meatballs GERD Friendly?

Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, ham, and hot dogs, can exacerbate GERD symptoms due to several factors: (1) High Fat Content: Processed meats often contain high amounts of saturated fat, which can slow down digestion and relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This can allow stomach acid to reflux into the esophagus, causing heartburn and other GERD symptoms. (2) Preservatives and Additives: Many processed meats contain preservatives like nitrates and nitrites, which can irritate the digestive tract and contribute to GERD symptoms. (3) Sodium Content: Processed meats are often high in sodium, which can lead to fluid retention and bloating, potentially worsening GERD symptoms

Note by Team Spoonful, Clinical nutrition experts