The nurse is teaching a client diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) about dietary measures to manage symptoms. Which food does the nurse advise the client to avoid?

  • bananas
  • tomatoes
  • white bread
  • grilled salmon
  • steel-cut oatmeal
Number 2 is correct.
The nurse should instruct the client to eat a low-fat, high-fiber diet, avoiding acidic foods. Tomatoes are highly acidic and consumption of tomatoes or tomato-based sauces can worsen the symptoms of GERD. Bananas are low in fat and acid and contain fiber. White bread does not contain acid and has fiber. Grilled salmon is a low-fat choice that avoids fried foods, which are high in fat and irritating to clients with GERD. Steel-cut oatmeal is a low-fat, high-fiber option.