Dangerous Dishes
Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a condition that makes your esophagus, the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach, become inflamed and irritated. This happens because your immune system overreacts to certain foods. If you have EoE, there are some foods that can make your symptoms worse. In this article, we’ll look at the worst foods for EoE and what you can do to feel better.
8 Worst Foods for EoE
1. Dairy Products
Milk, cheese and yogurt can be hard for people with EoE to handle, especially if they are sensitive to dairy. These foods can cause inflammation and make swallowing difficult.
2. Wheat and Gluten
Foods like bread, pasta and cookies that contain wheat or gluten can trigger EoE symptoms. Gluten is a protein in wheat that some people with EoE find problematic.
3. Soy
Soy milk, tofu and soy sauce are common foods made from soy. Soy can be a problem for people with EoE, as it might cause a reaction in their immune system.
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4. Nuts
Peanuts, almonds and other nuts are known to be allergenic and can lead to inflammation in the esophagus, making it harder to swallow.
5. Seafood
Fish and shellfish like shrimp and crab can trigger EoE symptoms. Seafood is a common allergen that can cause issues for many people with EoE.
6. Eggs
Eggs are another common food that can trigger EoE. Foods like scrambled eggs or baked goods with eggs can cause inflammation.
7. Fruity Foods
Fruits like oranges, lemons and tomatoes can be acidic and may irritate the esophagus. This can make symptoms worse for people with EoE.
8. Spicy Foods
Hot peppers, spicy sauces and other spicy foods can increase inflammation and make swallowing more difficult for people with EoE.
Best Foods for EoE
For individuals with Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), choosing the right foods can help manage symptoms and reduce inflammation. While each person's triggers may vary, some foods are generally considered less likely to cause problems. Here are some of the best foods for people with EoE:
- Lean proteins: Chicken, turkey and fish (excluding commonly allergenic types like shellfish) are good sources of protein that are less likely to trigger symptoms.
- Non-acidic fruits: Apples, pears and bananas are usually well-tolerated. These fruits are low in acidity and less likely to irritate the esophagus.
- Vegetables: Most vegetables, especially those that are cooked, like carrots, spinach and squash, are generally safe. They provide essential nutrients without causing inflammation.
- Gluten-free grains: Rice, quinoa and gluten-free oats are good alternatives to wheat-based products. These grains are less likely to cause a reaction in people with EoE who are sensitive to gluten.
- Non-dairy alternatives: Almond milk, rice milk and oat milk can be good substitutes for cow's milk. These alternatives are often better tolerated by individuals with dairy sensitivity.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil, avocados and flaxseeds provide healthy fats and are less likely to trigger EoE symptoms. They can also help with overall nutrition and reduce inflammation.
- Plain foods: Foods that are plain and minimally processed, like plain baked chicken or steamed vegetables, are less likely to contain hidden allergens or irritants.
- Low-sugar foods: Foods with minimal added sugars can help reduce inflammation and avoid worsening symptoms. Opt for natural, unprocessed foods whenever possible.
- Herbal teas: Non-caffeinated herbal teas like chamomile or ginger tea can be soothing and less likely to irritate the esophagus compared to caffeinated or acidic beverages.
- Potatoes: Plain, cooked potatoes (without added butter or spices) are usually well-tolerated and provide a good source of carbohydrates.
Treatment Options for EoE
Managing EoE usually involves finding out which foods are causing problems and avoiding them. Here are some ways to handle EoE:
Elimination Diet
This involves removing common problem foods from your diet to see which ones cause symptoms. You might start by avoiding dairy, wheat, soy, nuts, seafood, eggs and acidic fruits, then slowly reintroduce them one at a time.
Medications
Doctors may prescribe medications to help with EoE. These can include:
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): These medicines reduce stomach acid, which can help with inflammation in the esophagus.
- Topical steroids: These are swallowed steroids that can help reduce inflammation directly in the esophagus.
Dietary Changes
Once you know which foods are causing problems, you can work with a dietitian to create a plan that avoids those foods while still giving you balanced nutrition.
Regular Check-Ups
Seeing your doctor regularly is important to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
What to Avoid with Eosinophilic Esophagitis
If you have Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE), avoiding certain foods can help you feel better and manage your symptoms. By staying away from dairy, wheat, soy, nuts, seafood, eggs, fruity and spicy foods, you can reduce inflammation and make swallowing easier. Working with your doctor to find the best treatment plan is key to managing EoE and staying healthy.
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