Avoid These Foods When Possible
Eosinophilic Esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic condition that causes inflammation and damage to the esophagus. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain and food impaction. Managing EoE requires dietary adjustments, as certain foods can trigger or worsen inflammation. While many people know to avoid common allergens like dairy, gluten and nuts, lesser-known foods can also exacerbate symptoms. This article explores the worst foods to avoid with eosinophilic esophagitis, including some surprising triggers that may not be as widely recognized.
1. Soy Products
Soy is one of the lesser-known triggers for people with EoE, but it can cause significant inflammation in the esophagus for those who are sensitive to it. It's a common ingredient in many processed foods, including soy milk, tofu and soy-based meat substitutes. Some individuals may not even realize they are consuming soy because it is often included as an additive in sauces, dressings and even baked goods. For people with EoE, it’s essential to carefully read labels to avoid hidden sources of soy.
Soy contains isoflavones and proteins that can trigger an immune response, leading to an increase in eosinophils in the esophagus. Avoiding soy products can help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of EoE. Fortunately, there are many alternatives to soy, such as almond or oat milk, and pea protein-based meat substitutes.
2. Corn and Corn Derivatives
Corn is another lesser-known food that can be problematic for people with EoE. While corn is considered a relatively mild allergen compared to dairy or gluten, it can still trigger eosinophil accumulation in some individuals. Corn is found in a wide range of products, including corn chips, tortillas and popcorn, as well as in processed foods as corn syrup or corn starch.
The difficulty with corn lies in its ubiquity. Many processed foods contain corn derivatives, and it can be challenging to avoid it entirely. However, for individuals with EoE, eliminating corn from the diet can make a significant difference in reducing inflammation and managing symptoms. Alternatives to corn-based products include rice-based snacks or potato chips.
3. Eggs
Eggs are a common allergen and can be particularly problematic for people with EoE. Both the egg white and the yolk contain proteins that may trigger an immune response in individuals with EoE. For some, even trace amounts of egg in baked goods or sauces can cause a flare-up of symptoms, making it important to check ingredient lists carefully.
Eggs are frequently used in everyday foods like pancakes, bread, mayonnaise and even some salad dressings, so avoiding them can be difficult. However, for individuals with EoE, it is often necessary to eliminate eggs entirely from the diet to prevent esophageal inflammation. Alternatives like applesauce or flaxseed can be used as substitutes for eggs in cooking and baking.
4. Tree Nuts
While peanuts are a well-known allergen, tree nuts, such as almonds, walnuts and cashews can also trigger EoE symptoms. Tree nuts are common in many foods, from nut butters and snack bars to dairy substitutes like almond milk. For individuals with EoE, consuming tree nuts can lead to increased inflammation in the esophagus, making swallowing painful and increasing the risk of food impaction.
Because tree nuts are often used in health foods, it’s essential to be aware of their presence in "healthy" snacks like granola, trail mixes and protein bars. Substitutes like sunflower seed butter or oat-based products can help reduce the risk of EoE flare-ups while providing similar textures and flavors.
5. Wheat and Gluten
Wheat and gluten are common triggers for people with EoE even if they are not diagnosed with celiac disease. Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley and rye, can irritate the digestive system and cause an immune response in some individuals. In people with EoE, consuming gluten can increase eosinophil levels, leading to inflammation and worsening symptoms.
Many processed foods contain wheat or gluten, so avoiding them can be a challenge. Gluten-free alternatives like quinoa, rice or gluten-free bread products can provide similar textures without triggering symptoms. Checking labels for hidden sources of gluten is crucial for managing EoE.
6. Processed Meats
Processed meats, including hot dogs, sausages and deli meats, are often high in preservatives, sodium and artificial additives, all of which can exacerbate EoE symptoms. Additionally, processed meats may contain gluten or other hidden allergens, such as soy or corn-based fillers, which can trigger an immune response. The high sodium content in these meats can also lead to dehydration, worsening the irritation in the esophagus and making swallowing more difficult.
For individuals with EoE, it's best to avoid processed meats altogether and instead opt for fresh, unprocessed meats like chicken, turkey or fish. These alternatives are less likely to contain hidden allergens or inflammatory ingredients, helping to manage symptoms more effectively.
7. Chocolate
Chocolate, though beloved by many, can be a significant trigger for individuals with EoE. This is due to a combination of factors, including the caffeine and theobromine found in chocolate, both of which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and promote acid reflux. In people with EoE, acid reflux can exacerbate esophageal inflammation, leading to increased discomfort and difficulty swallowing.
Dark chocolate is particularly problematic due to its higher caffeine content, while milk chocolate also contains dairy, which is another common EoE trigger. Individuals with EoE may need to eliminate chocolate from their diet entirely, opting for carob-based substitutes that do not contain caffeine or other inflammatory compounds.
8. Tomatoes and Tomato-Based Products
Tomatoes, while often seen as a healthy food, can be highly problematic for individuals with EoE due to their acidity. Acidic foods can irritate the esophagus and worsen inflammation, making it harder for those with EoE to manage their symptoms. Tomato-based products, such as pasta sauces, salsas and ketchup, are particularly problematic because they are highly concentrated sources of acidity.
For individuals with EoE, it’s important to avoid tomatoes and opt for non-acidic alternatives like pesto, hummus or white sauces to reduce inflammation and irritation in the esophagus.
These foods for avoid with eosinophilic esophagitis should be cut from your diet wherever possible. Dietary changes, combined with medical treatment, can help alleviate symptoms.