Acid reflux happens when undigested food and stomach acid back up through the lower esophageal sphincter into the esophagus, irritating its lining. You may experience burning pain, belching, bloating, sore throat, flatulence and coughing along with other unpleasant symptoms during an attack of acid reflux. Certain foods are known for their ability to reduce the incidence of acid reflux attacks and soothe away symptoms.
Apples
Although there is no scientific research, there is anecdotal evidence that eating apples may bring relief to some people suffering from acid reflux, according to Dr. Theodore Baroody in "Alkalize or Die." He recommends eating sweet red apples, which have a higher pH and help neutralize the effects of stomach acids. Apples trigger the production of digestive juices in the mouth, signaling the stomach to produce less acid, says Baroody. In addition, apples are high in flavonoids, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, which may reduce the incidence of the bacteria H. pylori, which is responsible for the formation of some stomach ulcers.
Licorice Tea
Licorice tea is made from licorice root and may help soothe and relieve the effects of acid reflux, according to "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Licorice tea creates a film called "mucilage" that coats the esophageal lining, helping to protect it from irritation from stomach acids being refluxed. Both tea bags and loose, dried licorice root are available at health food stores. Licorice can raise your blood pressure, so consult your health practitioner if you have hypertension or take medications for high blood pressure.
Honey
Honey is high in potassium, a mineral that contributes to building an alkaline-forming environment in the digestive tract, according to Baroody. Honey is predigested by bees and easy for humans to digest. It is soothing on the esophageal and stomach linings, helping to protect them from undue burning of stomach acids. Because it is high in potassium, honey may help alter the pH of the digestive juices, contributing to neutralizing them to avoid damage from acid reflux, adds Baroody. A spoonful of honey right before bedtime may help you sleep better and reduce your acid reflux symptoms.
Berries
Eat berries to help reduce acid reflux symptoms, says the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and other red or purple berries are high in antioxidants, anthocyanins, potassium and vitamin C, according to the "Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition." The sweeter the berries, the more effective they may be in reducing reflux symptoms, says Baroody.
Green Tea
A popular and healthy drink in both Asia and the West, green tea is high in polyphenols, compounds that are rich in antioxidants that protect digestive tissues against damage from acid reflux, according to Life Extension. Green tea may help stimulate the lower esophageal sphincter to contract, which assists in keeping stomach digest and acids where they belong in the stomach. Drink a cup of green tea at the end of your meals to benefit most from its effects.
References
- Life Extension: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastritis
- "Alkalize or Die"; Dr. Theodore A. Baroody; 1991
- "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook: Your Everyday Reference to the Best Herbs for Healing"; James Duke; 2002
- "Concise Encyclopedia of Foods and Nutrition"; Audrey H. Ensminger; 1995
