Have you heard about acid reflux or did you happen to experience heartburn? How does it feel and when did it usually occur? Are there any foods that you feel like associated with its occurrence? If that is the case, then there are also foods that might help to prevent the experience. Gastrroephageal reflux disease (GERD) occurs when there is an acid backflow from the stomach into the esophagus and it affects your entire digestive tract. It can cause issues like heartburn, persistent cough esophagitis, ulcers, and even cancer. Acid reflux happens when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is weakened or damaged. Foods can also increase the production of stomach acid that can cause symptoms of GERD. Some common foods that trigger GERD are fatty foods, spicy foods, citrus fruits, and caffeine. It is advisable to avoid these foods to reduce the effects of GERD.
Foods that can help to prevent acid reflux:
- High Fiber Foods – Eat a healthy fiber which includes whole grains and oatmeal. Root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and sweet potatoes can help to prevent acid reflux. Green vegetables such as broccoli, green beans, and asparagus are also good for individuals who often experience acid reflux.
- Alkaline Foods – It is ideal to consume foods with higher pH because it can help to lower stomach acid. Alkaline foods are bananas, melons, cauliflower, fennel, and nuts.
- Watery Foods – Eating foods that contain lot of water can help dilute and weaken stomach acid. These foods include celery, cucumber, lettuce, watermelon, broth-based soups, and herbal tea.
Foods/Beverages that can trigger or worsen symptoms.
- High-fat foods
- Caffeine
- Chocolate
- Onions
- Peppermint
- Carbonated beverages
- Alcohol
- Citrus and tomato products
Proper diet is very important to stay heathy and to avoid different health problems. Keep in mind the health benefits of the foods that you eat. Food can cause acid reflux when eaten 2-3 hours before bedtime. It is better to know the health benefits of the food that you eat rather than consuming them too much without considering the aftereffects. Let us always remember that HEALTH is our topmost concern!
NOI Kimberly Tanador, RND
References:
GERD Diet: Foods That Help with Acid Reflux (Heartburn)
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/gerd-diet-foods-that-help-with-acid-reflux-heartburn
Foods to help your Acid Reflux
https://www.healthline.com/health/gerd/diet-nutrition
The Best and Worst Food for Acid Reflux
https://www.uhhospitals.org/Healthy-at-UH/articles/2014/04/best-and-worst-foods-for-acid-reflux
Best Foods for controlling Reflux
https://www.gerdhelp.com/blog/gerd-diet-the-best-foods-for-controlling-reflux/
