Goodbye to Acid Reflux: 10 Delicious Foods That Can Help
Are you tired of suffering from acid reflux and heartburn? Acid reflux is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. Did you know that over 60 million Americans experience heartburn at least once a month? You might search for natural alternatives to ease your symptoms if you’re one of them.
Many delicious and healthy foods can help alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux. Though there are many prescription medications, they can often be expensive and have unwanted side effects.
In this post, we’ll explore an acid reflux diet and discuss ten delicious foods if you’re wondering what foods neutralize stomach acid immediately and naturally.
What Is Acid Reflux?
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Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition in which acidic contents flow from the stomach back into the esophagus. This phenomenon can cause irritation and inflammation.
GERD symptoms differ from one person to another. However, common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, nausea and vomiting, and chronic cough or hoarseness.
If untreated, acid reflux can lead to more severe health problems, such as esophageal ulcers, bleeding, or cancer. It is essential to seek treatment if you experience frequent or severe symptoms of GERD.
The Acid Reflux Diet
The acid reflux diet is a meal plan that aims to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. This diet involves eating foods and drinks less likely to cause acid reflux symptoms, such as healthy fats like coconut oil, citrus fruits, vegetables, and essential oils, and avoiding those with a high acid content, including spicy foods.
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10 Foods that Help Neutralize Stomach Acid Immediately
While some foods can trigger acid reflux symptoms, others may help neutralize stomach acid and alleviate symptoms. Here’s an overview of how each food can help.
Bananas
Bananas are low-acid fruits that can help neutralize stomach acid. They also contain potassium, which can help relax the LES and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory characteristics. Some experts suggest it may help reduce burning sensations in the esophagus, which can help alleviate GERD symptoms.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a low-fat, high-fiber food that can help absorb excess stomach acid and reduce symptoms of GERD.
Green Vegetables
Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and asparagus are low-acid foods that can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce esophagic inflammation. They’re also full of vitamins and minerals for your overall health.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains probiotics to help improve digestion and lessen the frequency of acid reflux episodes.
Almonds
Almonds are a low-fat protein source that neutralizes stomach acid and reduce inflammation in the esophagus.
Melons
Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are low-acid fruits that can help neutralize stomach acid and lower GERD symptoms.
Fennel
Fennel has anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus, which can help alleviate GERD symptoms.
Lean Protein
Lean proteins like chicken, fish, and turkey are low-fat sources of protein that can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
Whole Grains
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Brown rice, quinoa, and whole-grain bread are good sources of fiber. These foods can help absorb excess stomach acid.
Delicious Recipes using these Foods
Banana Oatmeal Smoothie
This recipe contains bananas and oatmeal, which can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
Ingredients:
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp honey (optional)
Directions:
Put all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. This smoothie is a great option for breakfast or a snack. Oatmeal and banana can help absorb excess stomach acid, while yogurt and almond milk provide probiotics to improve digestion.
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Grilled Chicken with Fennel Salad
This recipe comprises lean protein and fennel, which can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper
- 1 fennel bulb, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions:
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Grill for 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through.
Combine sliced fennel, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil in a bowl. Toss to combine. Serve grilled chicken with fennel salad on the side.
This dish is a perfect option for lunch or dinner. The lean protein from the chicken can help reduce acid reflux symptoms, while the fennel provides anti-inflammatory properties.
Ginger and Green Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe includes ginger and vegetables, two foods that can help alleviate acid reflux symptoms.
Ingredients:
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp grated ginger
- 1 head of chopped broccoli
- 1 bunch of asparagus, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp honey (optional)
- Cooked brown rice for serving
Directions:
Heat vegetable oil in a big skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 1–2 minutes, until fragrant. Add broccoli, asparagus, and bell pepper and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, until vegetables are tender-crisp.
Using a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey (if using). Add soy sauce mixture to the vegetables and stir to coat. Serve stir-fry over cooked brown rice.
This dish is an excellent option for dinner. Ginger provides anti-inflammatory properties, while green vegetables are low-acid foods that can help neutralize stomach acid.
Other Natural Remedies for Acid Reflux
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In addition to dietary changes, several natural remedies may help alleviate acid reflux symptoms. Some of these home remedies include the following:
Herbal Teas
Ginger tea, chamomile tea, and licorice tea have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce GERD symptoms.
Apple Cider Vinegar
While acidic, apple cider vinegar may help reduce stomach acidity and improve digestion. However, drink in moderation and dilute this with water to prevent further irritation to the esophagus.
Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that may improve gut health and digestion. Probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut may help alleviate acid reflux symptoms by improving digestive function.
Conclusion
Acid reflux is a condition that affects many people and can cause discomfort and potentially severe health problems. Adding these natural foods to your diet is the way to go.
Adding these natural foods to your diet is the way to go. Studies show weight loss and other lifestyle changes can help manage GERD symptoms. Additionally, people with GERD should avoid eating fried foods or fatty foods.
