There are foods that cause heartburn and there are foods that prevent it. However, results vary from individual to individual. What is one man’s meat may be another man’s poison. It is highly advisable for anyone suffering from acid reflux to keep a food journal to monitor what they eat.
The moment you have heartburn, you can refer to the journal and analyze what you ate and if those foods could be the cause. Do not try to rely on memory. Most people can’t even remember what they watched on TV the night before.
This article will give you a list of foods which will help prevent heartburn or reduce any discomfort that you may be currently enduring. The list is not exhaustive but you may wish to give some of the foods a try.
Most people underestimate the power of eating right and clean. Healthy, nutritious and wholesome food work wonders for the body. The foods listed below contain less fat and tend to be more alkaline. Acid reflux sufferers should try to keep their bodies less acidic and more alkaline.
1. Aloe Vera
This is a miracle food. People use it for a variety of treatments from hair loss to skin problems. Guess what? It helps with acid reflux too.
2. Bananas
Another power food. Not only are they packed with nutrients, but bananas give you more energy and help reduce acid reflux symptoms.
3. Chicken or turkey
Generally, white meat is more suitable for heartburn patients. It is less fatty and has a much lower chance of causing heartburn than regular red meat. However, do not deep fry the meat. It should be grilled or steamed where possible.
4. Fish and other seafood
Also a great option since you should be avoiding red meat. Similar to the above point, try not to fry them. By frying your food, you will make it more fattening and the goal here is to keep your foods less fatty. The reason for this is that fatty foods make your stomach produce more acid and also relax the lower esophageal sphincter. That’s a double whammy. More acid and a much higher chance of the acid splashing up your throat. Not fun at all!
5. Salads and celery
Wise food choices, these two. You will be healthier, lose excess fat and keep your acid reflux symptoms at bay. Most people are aware that these foods are good for them yet they are unwilling to make the switch because it takes a while to form the habit of eating healthy and giving up the comfort foods.
If your acid reflux is bad, you do not have a choice but to change your eating habits to lead a relatively pain free life.
6. Oatmeal
This is a nutritious food and does not cause heartburn. Eat it when you can
7. Parsley
This is a medicinal herb and many people have reported benefits from consuming it as part of their diet. Give it a try.
The above foods are beneficial and you should make an effort to include them in your diet. However, monitor their effects on you. If all is good, then carry on. If any of the above foods cause heartburn, then avoid it.