Foods to Eat and Avoid During Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is not liked by anyone as this is a backflow of acid in the stomach into the esophagus. This happens commonly in people but can cause complications or trouble and may cause bad heartburn.

One of the reasons why this happens is that the lowest esophageal sphincter is weakened or damaged. The best gastrologist doctor in Pakistan says that normally lowest esophageal closes prevent food in the stomach from moving into the esophagus. 

Now, the foods that you consume can impact the amount of acid the stomach produces. Consuming the right kind of food can help in controlling acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which is the more severe form of acid reflux.

Foods to Consume for Acid Reflux

Reflux Symptoms can result in stomach acid touching the esophagus and cause pain and irritation. However, you can add some of the specific foods to your diet in order to manage symptoms of acid reflux. Let’s dig in. 

Use Ginger for Acid Reflux

Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is a natural treatment for heartburn and other gastrointestinal problems. You can add slice ginger or grated ginger to your recipes. You can also make them part of your smoothies. 

Another way to consume it is through the consumption of ginger tea. You can make it by adding a small ginger piece to 2 glasses of water. Boil it and then add a little bit of lemon.  You can drink it after you have your meals in order to feel okay.

Use Vegetables for Acid Reflux

Vegetables are low in fat and sugar naturally. Good options for vegetables include greens, like cauliflower, potatoes, broccoli, asparagus, and cucumbers.  

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is whole grain and is considered to be one of the favorite whole grains. A diet high in fiber is linked with a lower risk of acid reflux. Other options for fiber include whole-grain rice and whole-grain bread.
Read more about weight loss tips.

Non-Citric Fruits

Non-citric fruits like pears, bananas, melon, and apples can be really great for you if you want to stay away from acid reflux. 

Foods to Avoid

Although doctors do debate which foods can help in treating acid reflux, it must be noted that it is important to look at the foods that must be avoided. Let’s have a look.

High-Fat Foods

Fried food and fatty food can cause the lowest esophageal sphincter to relax. It allows more stomach acid to back up into the esophagus. These foods can also play a role in delaying stomach emptying. 

Consuming high-fiber foods put you at risk of reflux symptoms and reducing total daily fat intake can help. 

Here are some of the food options that have a very high-fat content. Avoid consuming them as they can worsen your condition. 

• Onion rings or french fries
• Full-fat dairy products like whole milk, regular cheese, and sour cream
• Fatty or fried beef, or lamb
• Snacks or desserts like ice cream or potato chips
• Oily or greasy food
• Gravies, creamy salad dressings, and creamy sauces

Onions, Garlic, and Spicy Food

Spicy food and food that is tangy like onions and garlic can trigger heartburn symptoms in a lot of people. 

These foods will not trigger reflux in everyone. But if you consume a lot of onions or garlic, you need to rack your meals very carefully. Some of these options along with spicy foods can bother you more than other foods do. 

Tomatoes and Citric Foods

Fruits and vegetables are very important in a healthy diet. But if seen closely, certain foods can worsen GERD symptoms, especially the ones with higher acidity. 

If you have frequent acid reflux, you should reduce or eliminate the intake of these foods: 

• Limes
• Oranges
• Tomatoes
• Grapefruit
• Pineapple
• Salsa

Lifestyle Changes to Make

Some of the lifestyle tips can also make a difference. Don’t just depend o nutrition and food options and try to change your lifestyle along with changing food preferences. 

• Avoid smoking
• Take antacids and other medicines that help in reducing acid production
• Chew a non-flavored gum that has peppermint or spearmint
• Do not overeat, and eat slowly
• Avoid wearing clothes that are too tight for you
• Remain upright for at least 2 hrs after you eat
• Raise the head of the bed 4 to 6 inches to reduce the symptoms while sleeping
• Try to maintain a healthy weight as it can impact too

All in all, do not depend only on food, or on just lifestyle changes. A combination of both will work great.

Conclusion

Acidity can be really bad for you as it can burn your throat and can make eating food difficult for you. Now, it is up to you, to consume the right kinds of food and avoid those that can make your condition worse. If you think your condition is worsening with time, it is best to visit a doctor and discuss your symptoms.