Symptoms of acid reflux and heartburn can make things miserable, but numerous medicines and antacids are available that may relieve associated symptoms. You can also try adjusting your diet to control acid reflux. Heartburn, also known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease, is often triggered by stomach acids that irritate your esophagus and stomach, reports MayoClinic.com. Consuming foods that improve digestion and neutralize stomach acids can reduce the severity of your symptoms.
Berries and Non-Citrus Fruits
Consume fruits such as apples, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, cantaloupes, melons and papaya. These fruits contain substantial amounts of fiber that can aid digestive functions and reduce the amount of stomach acid produced by indigestion. Applesauce also provides a soothing effect to the esophagus because of its cool, soft texture. Citrus fruits such as limes and oranges will promote heartburn because they increase stomach acidity, according to GI Care.
Calcium-Rich Vegetables
Calcium is an important ingredient in antacids. According to the 2004 study "Digestive Diseases and Science" conducted by the Oklahoma Foundation for Digestive Research, calcium promotes the neutralization of acidic protons in your stomach, which can irritate the esophagus lining during acid reflux. Vegetables that contain healthy amounts of calcium to combat stomach acid include spinach, broccoli, artichokes, asparagus, cabbage, beets, eggplant, kale and sweet potatoes. Use tofu or snack on almonds to incorporate calcium into your daily diet and reduce stomach acid production.
Whole Grains
The Veterans Health Administration reports that consuming fiber-rich foods can reduce the effects or occurrence of heartburn symptoms. Oatmeal, oat bran, bulgur, rye, spelt, whole wheat bread, whole wheat crackers and other whole grains contain healthy amounts of fiber and calcium. Improve digestion and neutralize the acid in one basic dish. Whole grains promote healthy digestive functions because it reduces appetite by keeping your stomach full.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Heartburn
- Jackson Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Heartburn and Reflux
- Veterans Health Administration: Fiber-Rich Diet Wards Off Heartburn
- PubMed: Calcium Carbonate Antacids Alter Esophageal Motility in Heartburn Sufferers
- Foundation for Better Health Care: Heartburn (GERD)
- MayoClinic.com: GERD Lifestyle and Home Remedies
