What Foods Are Best To Eat To Stop Heartburn?

Heartburn refers to a burning sensation in the chest. While occasional heartburn is considered common and not serious, according to MayoClinic.com, frequent heartburn may indicate a serious medical condition. While dietary measures are not known to cure heartburn, certain foods may help prevent or reduce heartburn symptoms. For specified guidance, discuss your symptoms and dietary goals with a qualified health care professional.

Papaya

Papaya is a tropical fruit that contains valuable amounts of nutrients, including the antioxidant vitamin C and papain and chymopapain, enzymes known for their potent digestion-enhancing properties. According to "Digest Alive the Natural Cure to Heartburn," by Acharya D. Hargreaves, the papain and chymopapain in papaya can help prevent and alleviate heartburn symptoms. For best results, select slightly green, firm papaya, since fully ripened papaya contains the fewest amounts of both enzymes. Papaya that is picked when green then allowed to ripen also contains rich amounts of papain and chymonpapain.

Probiotics

Probiotics are healthy bacteria that help restore the body's helpful bacteria levels and improve digestive health. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, probiotics can help reduce heartburn and other symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Valuable sources of probiotics include yogurt with live active cultures, kefir (a yogurt-like beverage), fermented soy products, fermented cabbage, sour kraut and numerous fortified foods and beverages. Probiotics can also help people with lactose intolerance digest dairy products without experiencing heartburn, stomach pain or other digestive symptoms.

Garlic

Garlic has been used as a food, seasoning and natural health remedy for centuries. According to Hargreaves, garlic can help improve digestive function, eliminate harmful bacteria in the digestive tract and relieve symptoms associated with heartburn. Consume garlic fresh, whole, dried, minced or in dried or powder form. Minced garlic can easily add flavor and wellness benefits to soups, stir-fries, curries, casseroles, pizza, pasta dishes and breads.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables provide significant amounts of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a diet based upon antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables can help prevent or reduce heartburn and other symptoms of GERD. If you find that acidic fruits trigger heartburn, stick to non-acidic varieties, such as bananas, peaches, berries, most apples, canned pears, canned peaches and cantaloupe. Otherwise, consume a variety of fruits and vegetables routinely for maximum potential benefit. Fruits and vegetables particularly rich in antioxidants include apricots, berries, citrus fruits, apples, papaya, tomatoes, artichokes, avocados, spinach, kale, mustard greens, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, sweet potato, baked potatoes (with skin), legumes and squash.

Whole Grains

Whole grains provide rich amounts of fiber and nutrients, including iron, magnesium, selenium and B-vitamins. Foods rich in B-vitamins can help prevent heartburn and enhance your overall wellness, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Whole grains also provide nutrient-rich alternatives to processed foods, such as enriched breads, potato chips and pastries, which may exacerbate heartburn. Consume a variety of whole grains, such as spelt, bulgur, whole wheat, brown rice, popcorn, wild rice, barley, quinoa and oats regularly for optimum results.