Foods That Heal and Harm: 12 Foods for Soothing Acid Reflux

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a discomforting condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. Managing this condition requires careful control of dietary habits. Let’s look at foods that can help alleviate GERD and those that can worsen it.

1. Foods beneficial for GERD

Ginger

Ginger acts as a natural digestive stimulant, regulating stomach acid secretion and reducing the reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus. It’s beneficial to drink ginger tea or consume a small amount of ginger during meals.

Oats

Rich in dietary fiber, oats can help reduce the reflux of stomach acid and other stomach contents. It’s good to consume oats for breakfast or include them in other meals.

Bananas and Melons

Bananas and melons are low-acid fruits that can help alleviate the symptoms of GERD. These fruits are effective in neutralizing stomach acid.

Almonds

Nuts like almonds can strengthen the esophageal sphincter, helping prevent the reflux of stomach acid. It’s good to consume a small amount each day consistently.

Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory effects that can soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation. However, when choosing aloe vera juice, it’s essential to select a product without added sugars or other additives.

Water

Drinking enough water dilutes stomach acid and reduces the reflux of stomach contents. It’s especially beneficial to drink water during or after meals.

2. Foods detrimental to GERD

Tomatoes and Citrus Fruits

Tomatoes and citrus fruits like oranges and lemons are highly acidic and can trigger acid reflux. It’s best to minimize the consumption of these fruits and their juices.

Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining and increase stomach acid secretion, worsening GERD symptoms. It’s best to avoid spicy and salty foods.

Fatty Foods

Foods high in fat, such as fried foods, butter, and high-fat meats, tend to stay in the stomach longer. This can increase stomach acid secretion and trigger the reflux of stomach contents.

Coffee and Alcohol

Coffee and alcohol stimulate stomach acid secretion and weaken the function of the esophageal sphincter, exacerbating reflux symptoms. It’s essential to avoid consuming these on an empty stomach.

Chocolate

The caffeine and other compounds in chocolate can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase the reflux of stomach acid.

Gas-Producing Beverages and Foods

Carbonated beverages, onions, and garlic can produce gas, causing bloating and increasing the reflux of stomach acid.

Choosing the right foods is crucial in managing GERD symptoms. Reducing the intake of foods that burden the stomach and balancing the intake of foods that help alleviate symptoms is essential. As dietary adjustments may vary depending on an individual’s condition, seeking advice from a professional can also be beneficial.

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