7 Foods to Manage Acid Reflux
Acid reflux, also known as GERD, is a digestive disease that leads to heartburn and esophageal burning. It happens when the stomach acid, known as bile, travels to the food pipe and leads to irritation along the lining. Fortunately, the condition is treatable. Besides medication, doctors recommend specific foods to control the disease. Here are some foods to eat to soothe acid reflux.
1. Whole grains
Whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal are considered the best foods to eat to soothe acid reflux. This is because they are a healthy source of complex carbohydrates and are rich in fiber. High-fiber foods are primarily known to reduce acid reflux since fiber makes the person feel full for long. This reduces the probability of overeating, which, in turn, prevents the stomach from producing excess acids that can travel up the esophagus, aggravating the symptoms.
2. Ginger
Roots like ginger that naturally offer anti-inflammatory properties can soothe acid reflux. They are a natural option to counteract gastrointestinal troubles and heartburn. One can grate or slice some ginger and add it to different food recipes or even beverages like tea or smoothies.
3. Lean meats
Lean meats like chicken and turkey are effective in lowering acid reflux symptoms. This is because lean meats are easy to digest and have low fat content. However, it is crucial to have the meat in the grilled, poached, or baked form to make it healthier.
4. Watermelon
Fruits like watermelon, honeydew, and cantaloupe are excellent to soothe acid reflux as these fruits have a low acid content. Additionally, they also have high water content, which aids in diluting and reducing stomach acid.
5. Olive oil
To soothe acid reflux, patients should substitute saturated fats with more healthy unsaturated fat like olive oil, sunflower oil, or sesame oil. These healthy fats help maintain overall health so that the body remains energized to fight off the condition’s symptoms.
6. Yogurt
Probiotic foods like yogurt and kefir help lower digestive issues by providing good bacteria to the body. Additionally, these foods also boost the overall digestive health, keeping conditions like acid reflux at bay.
7. Fennel
Among the foods that fight off acid reflux, fennel holds significant importance. It aids in soothing an upset stomach, a prominent symptom of acid reflux. Fennel can be easily consumed in raw or roasted form.
Besides having these foods to soothe acid reflux, patients should also avoid pizza, French fries, potato chips, fatty meat, and citrus fruits as they delay the digestive process, triggering acid reflux symptoms. One should also drink enough water as it helps reduce the formation of stomach acid and keeps digestive problems away. Bed-time snacks should also be avoided as far as possible.