Most of us have experienced that uncomfortable burning sensation in the stomach when we've eaten too many acid foods that haven't agreed with our bodies. Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is when acids flow back into your esophagus at the point when the stomach is overwhelmed or overly sensitive. Placing too much pressure on both the esophagus and stomach, these gastric juices create a painful feeling that also can extend to your chest area. Another cause of acid reflux can be if the esophageal sphincter is weak, causing leakage of acid into the esophagus from the stomach area. The best way to avert the problem is to change your eating habits or to make sure you have soothing foods on hand with every meal.
Fatty Foods
According to an article in the "Journal of Experimental Medicine," foods that are high in fat help to soothe the stomach when acid intake is high. One of the beneficial actions of fat is to produce cells in the small intestine that create the hormone cholecystokinin (CCK). This hormone helps to stimulate your digestion by triggering peristalsis, whereby food is propelled through the digestive tract. This action also helps you to feel full, causing you to stop eating before you have consumed too much. Another benefit of CCK is that it helps to cut down on inflammation, preventing your stomach from bloat and the discomfort that comes from this sensation.
Complex Carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates, such as rice, pasta and bread are extremely helpful in soothing the symptoms of acid reflux as they help to absorb excess acid in the stomach. If you plan to eat an especially spicy meal, include a complex carbohydrates with your menu to help offset the possible effects.
Yogurt
Plain yogurt is an excellent antidote for acid reflux. Many Indian recipes include yogurt side dishes to help neutralize the spicy curries that are so popular in the cuisine. Because yogurt contains important bacteria for aiding digestion, it helps counteract the accumulation of acids in the stomach.
Fruits
Dried figs, papaya and pineapple contain digestive enzymes such as bromelain, which help break down acids and calm the symptoms of GERD. Apple slices are also beneficial, as is apple cider vinegar. One teaspoon in a glass of water before or after a meal helps to alkalize the system, fending off the symptoms of over acidity.
Herbs and Spices
There are many herbs and spices that help to calm stomach acids, reduce inflammation, relax the muscles lining the digestive tract, aid digestion and cool the burning feeling that acid reflux creates. Orange peel extract moves food to the stomach and prevents excess acid buildup; ginger soothes the stomach; chamomile calms the stomach; slippery elm contains mucilage that expands when added to water, coating and soothing the stomach lining; basil helps calm irritation of the esophagus and stomach; fennel stimulates digestion and relaxes the muscles lining the digestive tract; chicory calms irritation; and turmeric reduces stomach acids and aids digestion. You can take any of these herbs as a tea.
Aloe vera is another excellent food that soothes the stomach and esophagus. Drink 1/4 cup of the juice before your meals to calm the effects of acid reflux.
