Which food may help reduce acid reflux?

Acid backflow from the stomach into the esophagus creates acid reflux. Acid reflux is common but can develop troublesome symptoms like heartburn. A reason this happens is that the lower esophageal sphincter is damaged. The lower esophageal sphincter normally will close and prevent any food from moving into the esophagus. 

The food that we eat has an impact on how much acid the stomach produces. Eating healthy foods can control acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease, a more severe acid reflux. 

The acid reflux is a result of the stomach acid touching the esophagus and causing damage and irritation. Some foods can help reduce acid reflux. None of these foods will cure the problem but should help relieve the pains. A cure to acid reflux might involve a change to your overall diet. 

Common foods that soothe acid reflux

Vegetables

Low in sugar and fat, vegetables help reduce acid reflux. A couple to note that is especially good is broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, leafy greens, potatoes, and cucumbers. 

Ginger

Ginger is considered a natural anti-inflammatory and is an excellent treatment for heartburn. Add sliced or grated ginger to tea, smoothies, and many dishes. 

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber. High fiber diets are proven to have lower heartburn and acid reflux. Other fiber options might include whole-grain rice or whole-grain bread. 

Non-citrus fruit

A few non-citrus fruits include apples, pears, bananas, and melons. All of these fruits will help reduce acid reflux.

Seafood and lean meats

Lean meats include chicken, fish, turkey, and seafood. Cook them grilled broiled, baked, or poached. Fried food will not help with acid reflux.

Egg whites

Skip the egg yolks, which are high in fat and may contribute to acid reflux.

Healthy fats

A good source of healthy fats include walnuts, flaxseed, olive oil, sesame oil, and avocado. Avoid saturated fats and trans fats and replace them with healthy unsaturated fats instead.

Common foods that trigger acid reflux

Doctors debate which foods cause acid reflux, and it is different for everyone depending on health and genetics. There is a list of foods to watch out for, though. 

High-fat foods

Fried foods are one of the worst foods to eat when battling heartburn. Fried foods will relax the lower esophageal sphincter allowing stomach acids to back up into the esophagus. These kinds of foods will also delay the stomach from emptying. 

Tomatoes and citrus fruit

Vegetables and fruits are essential for a healthy diet. High acidic fruits and vegetables will cause or worsen heartburn. Here is a list of foods to watch out for:

• oranges

• grapefruit

• lemons

• limes

• pineapple

• tomatoes

• tomato sauce

• salsa

Chocolate 

Chocolate can relax muscles like the lower esophageal sphincter and increase acid reflux.

Caffeine

There are plenty of reports from people having heartburn after their morning cup of coffee. Acid reflux is because caffeine is a known trigger. 

No known diet can completely prevent acid reflux, but watching which foods you eat and removing it from your diet can help reduce symptoms. Also, working with your doctor can help you develop a diet to control or reduce your symptoms.