Most of us experience mild to severe acid reflux from time to time, it occurs when the acid backflow from the stomach into the food pipe (esophagus) and can cause troublesome symptoms like irritation, pain and heartburn. Sometimes this uncomfortable burning sensation can slide up into throat leaving a bitter taste. In some cases, acid reflux may progress to a more serious form of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

Also Read: Water Brash: Know How To Deal With This GERD Symptom

Acid reflux develops when the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is damaged. Generally, the LES prevents food in the stomach from moving up into the esophagus by closing the valves. Moreover, in these days of lockdown and the new normalcy of work from home, we often enjoy eating a lot of deep-fried food items like pakoras, chips, samosas and other spicy foods that may worsen symptoms of acid reflux.

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Leading a healthy lifestyle, losing weight, eating small frequent meals, choosing wholesome foods, avoiding alcohol and smoking are some of the preventive measures that can help you to manage acid reflux.

The food you eat affects the amount of acid secreted by the stomach. Choosing the right kinds of food is a vital factor in controlling acid reflux. Making dietary tweaks can also be helpful in alleviating symptoms.

Studies reveal that some foods do wonders in reducing the intensity and frequency of developing acid reflux. Some of the food sources that are actively involved in improving acid reflux include:

High-quality protein foods like almonds, beans, lentils and fish such as salmon and trout.

Carbohydrates found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Fruits and vegetables abundant in vitamin c, magnesium, potassium and dietary fibre.

Green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli and kale.

Read through this article to an overview of 7 amazing foods that help to relieve acid reflux.

7 Incredible Foods To Soothe Heartburn

Bananas

Bananas are low-acid fruit that helps people suffering from acid reflux by coating an irritated esophageal lining and ease discomfort. The richness of natural dietary fibre acts as a potent digestive aid strengthens the digestive system and ward off indigestion. Apart from these, high on potassium and pectin, bananas help in smooth passage of stomach content through the gastrointestinal tract.

Melons

Melons like cantaloupe, honeydew and watermelon are mildly acidic food with a pH of 6.1 which is suitable to alleviate acid reflux. Melons are also loaded with magnesium which aids to neutralise the acid secretion in the stomach and gives respite to acid reflux. 

Oatmeal

The presence of both soluble and insoluble fibre in oatmeal may help ward off acid reflux symptoms. Bestowed with essential nutrients oatmeal keep you satiated, control unwanted hunger pangs, adds bulk to the stool, regularise bowel movements and lessen the chance of regurgitation. Relish wholesome oatmeal with low-fat milk or almond milk both of which are highly alkaline.

Yogurt

Yogurt imbued with probiotics, the gut-friendly bacteria helps people with gastrointestinal issues to stimulate the digestion process and boost immune response. The soothing properties aids to keep stomach discomfort and acid reflux at bay. Also Read: Homemade Curd Is A Probiotic And More

Green Leafy Vegetables

Green leafy vegetables are naturally low in fat and sugar and help to reduce stomach acid secretions. Spinach, broccoli, kale, asparagus and Brussels sprouts are highly alkaline which are good for the gut and offer respite from acid reflux.

Ginger

Ginger is bestowed with potent anti-inflammatory properties is valued as a natural remedy to treat heartburn and other gastrointestinal woes. All you have to do is add grated ginger to recipes or smoothies or drink ginger tea before or after meals to get relieved from acid reflux.

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile works wonder as a healthy alternative for tea, as black tea and green tea are caffeinated beverages that are generally avoided for acid reflux. The natural soothing properties of chamomile tea helps to beat stress and alleviate reflux.

Tips to Prevent Acid Reflux

Eat Slowly And Sparingly

Eating small frequent meals rather than three large meals daily is the ideal way to reduce reflux and acid secretions.

Stay Away From Triggers

Certain foods are more likely to trigger reflux including fatty foods, spicy food, tomatoes, onions, garlic, coffee, tea, chocolate, and alcohol. Try limiting these foods to ease discomfort.

Avoid Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated drinks can aggravate burping and increase acid secretion.

Manage Weight

Being obese or overweight may stretch the muscular structure that supports the oesophageal sphincter, decreasing the pressure that holds the muscle closed, this leads to reflux and heartburn. Thus, it is essential to shedding those extra pounds.

Quit Smoking

Nicotine from tobacco relaxes the valve between the oesophagus and stomach, this allows stomach acid and juices that break down the food to back up into the oesophagus, which causes heartburn.