10 foods that help relieve acid reflux

10 foods that help relieve acid reflux

Acid reflux can be quite annoying to deal with, especially when symptoms like heartburn keep returning. The burning sensation, chest discomfort, and throat irritation are hard to ignore. Fortunately, this is a condition that can be managed at home. There are many foods that help relieve symptoms, and the best part is that most of them are part of regular meals or can be easily incorporated into a food regimen.

Bananas

One of the simplest ways to manage or alleviate acid reflux is to eat foods that are alkaline or have an alkalizing effect. Bananas are one such food. It can help alleviate heartburn by neutralizing stomach acid. Also, bananas coat the esophageal lining, further reducing the irritation caused by acid reflux.

Watermelons

Another fruit considered one of the best foods for acid reflux relief is watermelon. The reason is the fruit’s high water content. Water can dilute stomach acid, thereby reducing acid reflux and heartburn. In addition, watermelon is among the few fruits naturally low in acid, which makes it gentle on the stomach.

Non-fat milk

Drinking milk is often seen as a quick remedy for acid reflux. However, doing that may not always help. Regular milk contains a good amount of fats, which can actually worsen acid reflux. So, instead, individuals can choose skim or non-fat milk. Skim milk can help relieve acid reflux symptoms by temporarily soothing the stomach and easing irritation. That said, they must also note that this option is not suitable for those who are lactose intolerant.

Ginger

This culinary herb has been used as a remedy for stomach aches and indigestion for a long time, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties. What makes it effective against acid reflux is its alkalizing effect on the body. To get relief, individuals can steep some ginger in hot water to make ginger tea. They just need to ensure not to add tea leaves, as caffeine can worsen the condition.

Whole grains

When experiencing acid reflux, individuals need to make sure they don’t overeat, as that can exacerbate the condition. Eating fiber-rich foods can help with that. High-fiber foods, such as whole grains, help them feel full longer, reducing the risk of overeating. To relieve acid reflux, they can eat whole-wheat bread or brown rice. 

Oatmeal

There is more than one reason why oatmeal is among the top foods to reduce heartburn. It is loaded with fiber, which helps individuals feel satiated and prevents overeating. More importantly, oats can easily absorb stomach acid. Other than that, oatmeal goes perfectly with bananas, which also help reduce acid reflux.

Potatoes

Potatoes can be a safe and comforting food for those dealing with acid reflux. They are rich in easily digestible fiber and complex carbohydrates, which can help absorb stomach acid. However, with potatoes, preparation matters a lot. Individuals must completely avoid consuming them in fried form, since that can worsen acid reflux. Boiled or baked potatoes are far better choices in this case.

Chicken breast

Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that is generally easy to digest and can help reduce the risk of acid reflux. Individuals only need to remove the skin before preparing it, as it is high in fat. Besides that, it is important to avoid frying the chicken. It is best prepared by baking, grilling, or broiling.

Root vegetables

Sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets can help reduce acid reflux. These root vegetables are a rich source of soluble fiber, which helps improve digestion and reduce stomach acid reflux.

Green vegetables

Salad greens, such as asparagus and broccoli, are foods that naturally reduce acid reflux through their alkalizing effect. Additionally, these vegetables are high in fiber and low in fat, both of which help alleviate acid reflux.

Popular Articles

01

Balding – Warning signs, causes, and management options

Losing around 50 to 100 strands of hair daily is quite normal. However, large clumps of hair on the pillow, in the shower drain, or on the brush can be a cause for concern and lead to balding in men and women. Fortunately, knowing the warning signs, causes, and management methods can help one slow hair loss and restore their confidence. Signs of balding  There are many early signs that can be observed before bald spots become visible. Knowing about these common indicators can be helpful. Receding hairline in men The hair along the temples appears to pull back, forming an M-shape. This usually starts in the 20s or 30s as hair along the front begins to thin gradually. Crown thinning The scalp becomes more visible at the top of the head. This happens when the hair density in this area drops. Many may see visible patches when brushing their hair or in bright light. Widening of the part in women  The central line along which hair is usually parted widens over time. Along with this, the hair starts to lose its overall thickness, appearing finer over time. Diffuse thinning Hair volume starts to decrease throughout the scalp. So, when running fingers through it or styling it in ponytails, one may notice that their hair feels less full.
Read More
02

Hemorrhoids – Symptoms, causes, and management

Hemorrhoids are swollen and enlarged veins that develop inside and outside of the rectum, which may cause a lot of discomfort and pain during stool passage. This condition results from several factors, including straining during bowel movements, inadequate fiber intake, chronic constipation, and prolonged sitting on the toilet. The good news is that the symptoms of hemorrhoids can improve over time by simply making small habit changes in daily life.​ Signs and symptoms Internal hemorrhoids typically do not cause any pain or obvious symptoms until they move outside the rectum. Since these develop inside the rectum, there is no way of knowing whether a person has the condition. Meanwhile, external hemorrhoids have several telltale signs that occur over time. A person can see small amounts of bright red blood during bowel movements. This is because swollen veins bleed easily, even with minimal friction. There is noticeable swelling around the outer area of the rectum, followed by a persistent uneasy feeling. A tender lump develops around the anus, causing pain and making it difficult to sit for extended periods. Stool or mucus leakage can worsen the discomfort. Sometimes, a person with the condition may experience a persistent feeling of incomplete bowel movement, resulting in frequent trips to the bathroom.
Read More
03

Causes and management options of hand tremors

Hand tremors or shaky hands are a symptom of a neurological disorder called essential tremor (ET), characterized by involuntary, rhythmic shaking, most commonly affecting the hands. These tremors gradually worsen, making daily tasks challenging. The onset of essential tremor can happen at any age, but it’s most commonly seen in individuals aged 40 and older. The best approach to managing the condition is to determine a suitable management plan through expert consultation. Causes Hand tremors are a symptom caused by various health conditions, including essential tremor. Other possible reasons for hand tremors include emotional stress, exposure to extreme temperatures, fatigue, and an excessive intake of stimulants like caffeinated drinks. Enhanced physiologic tremor This is one of the most commonly observed postural tremors (i.e., tremors that occur when a position is maintained against gravity). Enhanced physiologic tremor (EPT) usually affects the hands and fingers on both sides of the body. A few factors, such as chronic stress, lack of sleep, excessive caffeine intake, and vigorous exercise, can worsen EPT in some individuals. Anxiety and fatigue may also lead to shaky hands. Neurological conditions Sometimes, tremors, including shaky hands, are caused when deep parts of the brain that control movement don’t work as they should.
Read More