Foods like hamburgers, bacon, cheese and other spicy foods can irritate the stomach lining and cause painful symptoms of GERD, medically referred to as gastroesophageal reflux disease. GERD sufferers often experience heartburn, pain sensations, nausea and general discomfort related to acid backing up into the throat and moth, according to the Mayo Clinic. Since diet plays a major role in triggering GERD symptoms, discovering foods that aid in neutralizing your stomach acid and soothing your pain will enable you find relief from your symptoms.
Vegetables and Fruits
Most fresh vegetables and fruits relieve GERD symptoms and acid reflux, notes Dr. Theodore Baroody in his book Alkalize or Die. He suggests sweeter, more alkaline-forming fruits such as melons, berries and red apples that help to protect the stomach lining. Bananas also relieve reflux pain by acting as a natural antacid. Green and dark leafy vegetables, like collard greens, kale, Chinese cabbage and spinach, work to prevent acidosis, a condition that forms from eating foods that create or enhance an acidic environment in the gastric area, explains Baroody. Celery, carrots, avocados and artichokes are also beneficial foods for GERD.
Complex Carbohydrates
Whole grains and starchy vegetables help create an alkaline environment in the stomach, explains Dr. Robert Young in the book The pH Miracle. The book also advises that if you have GERD you should maintain an alkaline state for the body to reduce stomach acid production and promote proper digestive functions. Try quinoa or amaranth flour for baking or as whole grains in meals.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is considered a treatment for GERD, reports the book Alkalize or Die. Apple cider vinegar contributes to digestive enzyme creation and the production of stomach acids like bicarbonate that neutralize food as it travels down the digestive tract. Apple cider vinegar is high in potassium, promotes healthy kidney functions and aids in the motility of the digestive tract, according to Baroody.
Spices
To soothe acid reflux symptoms, use green spices like basil, suggests Dr. Thomas Baroody in his book Alkalize or Die. Ginger is also used to clear indigestion from eating spicy foods and relieving the burning pain you may feel with your GERD. Curries made with spices such as turmeric can soothe the esophagus and stomach while offering protection against excessive acid buildup.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- American College of Gastroenterology: The Word on GERD
- University of Illinois McKinley Health Center: The GERD diet
- "The pH Miracle;" Robert O. Young, Ph.D. and Shelly Redford Young; 2003
- "Alkalize or Die;" Dr. Theodore A. Baroody; 2001
