Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when the stomach's lower esophageal sphincter (LES) releases too much acid into your food.
The irritation from this acid causes unpleasant symptoms such as burning, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, and hoarseness. If you've been living with these symptoms for an extended period, certain foods are more likely to trigger these symptoms than others - and some may be good or bad, depending on your specific case.
It is a popular base for many recipes, and the probiotics found in yoghurt have been shown to promote digestive health. Yoghurt is also a great source of calcium and protein for those who have difficulty eating enough dairy products. It's less acidic than other dairy products and incredibly healthy for lactose-intolerant people.
The high amount of monounsaturated fats in peanuts makes it one of the best food choices among those suffering from acid reflux. Peanuts also contain a good supply of Vitamin E and fibre, which are essential nutrients to help protect your GI tract lining. It's a great idea to try adding peanut butter to your yoghurt for an extra nutritious snack.
Beans are a great source of fibre and protein. This combination of nutrients helps to maintain a healthy digestive tract. Another benefit of beans is that they account for about 20% of the underweight population. Because these foods can be challenging for those with acid reflux to digest, beans may be their best bet.
Whole grains are a good choice for those with acid reflux because they do not have ingredients that can irritate the digestive tract. Some of the best options for whole grains include brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, and whole wheat flour. It's best to avoid whole wheat bread and pasta since these food items contain large amounts of natural oils in the entire grain.
Vegetables are one of the best foods for acid reflux because they provide a lot of nutrients and vitamins, along with very little fat or calories. The best choices for vegetables include broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, and cabbage. Avoiding vegetables high in vitamin C, such as tomatoes, peppers, and citrus fruits is a good idea.
Spicy foods may be delicious, but they're also one of the worst things you can eat for those who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux symptoms. The capsaicin in many spicy foods, such as chilli peppers, can irritate the oesophagus so much that it causes pain. Because spicy foods are thought to impair the digestive system, people with sensitive stomachs may want to avoid spices altogether.
A lot of people drink alcoholic beverages because they enjoy the taste. It's best to avoid alcoholic beverages when suffering from acid reflux since they can be very harsh on your digestive tract and skin, especially if you suffer from heartburn or other gastritis-related problems.
Fried foods contain oils that are low in nutrients but high in fat content. These fats tend to promote heartburn by clogging up your digestive tract and slowing the breakdown of food – especially when you eat fatty foods late at night. It's best to avoid fried foods to prevent acid reflux. It's also wise to choose low-fat foods when possible.
Citrus is a known trigger food for acid reflux because it causes the oesophagus to produce more acid than usual. It can cause discomfort, especially if you suffer from heartburn regularly. Lemons, limes, and oranges are the worst offenders when it comes to citrus fruits – try reducing your intake or avoid them altogether to relieve symptoms.
Many people turn to tea to balance the acidity in their digestive systems. Green and black tea have been shown to stimulate saliva production, which helps neutralize the acid. However, flavoured teas may provide a different benefit, as these drinks are often high in sugar. Sticking with green or black tea is best if you're looking for a remedy.
Many foods can trigger acid reflux symptoms, which are best avoided by people suffering from this condition. However, many foods can help you keep your symptoms under control, which is why it's so important to know what you can and cannot eat. Picking foods based on your specific acid reflux symptoms may seem daunting, but it can be a great way to manage your condition. It can help you feel better as you learn how to pinpoint the things that trigger your symptoms and avoid them in the future. It's also important to remember that the foods listed above are unsuitable for all patients, so you should always discuss the best food choices with your doctor before trying anything new.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.