Are There Foods That Stop Acid Reflux? In-The-Moment vs Reflux Prevention
Acid reflux is an annoyingly persistent problem for a large part of the population. A quick search on the internet will tell you what you need to do to prevent heartburn, but these aren’t much use to you if you’re currently experiencing painful heartburn. It’s also sometimes depressing to read about all of the things you can’t eat, can’t drink, and can’t do if you struggle with heartburn or GERD.
Here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, we want you to have a positive outlook on the management of your condition. Let’s briefly review all of the general tips and tricks, then we’ll discuss what to drink for acid reflux and some foods that stop acid reflux.
How To Prevent Acid Reflux
If you’ve been dealing with acid reflux or GERD for years, you’ve probably already heard all of the standard tips and tricks: sit up after eating, don’t go to bed right after a snack or your last meal, wear looser clothing, take preventative medication, don’t overeat, and avoid your trigger foods.
What Foods and Drinks To Avoid
Trigger foods differ amongst individuals, but some common ones are acidic foods like tomato products, spicy sauces, and citrus fruits. You may also need to avoid most types of alcohol and other acidic beverages. Pay attention to your body, keep a food journal, and avoid any of your personal triggers. But these aren’t the tips you came here for; let’s take a look at some foods and drinks that can stop acid reflux in its tracks.
Foods That Stop Acid Reflux
Since acid reflux is caused by stomach contents flowing backward and up into the lower esophagus through a loosened lower esophageal sphincter (LES), eating foods that promote its tightening can be helpful in reducing symptoms. Foods that coat the digestive lining can also protect your esophagus and sphincter from the damaging acidic and digestive nature of refluxing stomach contents. For these reasons, the following foods can help you in the midst of an acid reflux attack:
Yogurt
There is some anecdotal evidence (no definitive scientific studies) that suggest the calcium in dairy (and some non-dairy substitutes) yogurt can actually help temporarily tighten up a loose LES. When the LES is tightened up, stomach contents are less likely to flow back into the esophagus. If you are suffering from an acid reflux attack, try eating a small serving of yogurt (without acidic berries or other toppings).
Banana
Banana is a high-fiber, low acid fruit with a slippery consistency that can help coat the digestive tract and prevent the symptoms associated with GERD and heartburn. The fiber in bananas can also help your body digest more easily and allow food to pass through the stomach quicker.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal and other whole grains, like banana, are high-fiber, low acid foods. Any food that adds bulk to your stomach without adding acidity is usually a good choice for reflux sufferers. Try to start your day with oats or whole-grain toast一 this will help prevent symptoms throughout the day.
What To Drink For Acid Reflux Symptoms
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
While this may seem counterintuitive, some patients actually suffer from too little stomach acid or insufficient acid production at mealtime. If you decrease the acidity of your stomach too much, it can be difficult to digest at mealtime一 causing food to linger for too long and reflux into the esophagus more easily. Drinking some ACV mixed into a glass of water may help you digest your food at mealtime.
Fresh Juices
If you have a blender or juicer, it can be helpful to make your own fruit and vegetable juices. Pick fruits with high water content (like melons) and vegetables with lots of calcium, like greens. If you choose to blend your juice, run the liquid through a fine sieve or flour sack towel for a smooth, delicious beverage.
Ginger & Other Teas
While ginger may help some individuals, it can also have an opposite effect for others, loosening the LES and changing contractions within the esophagus. If you try ginger tea or ginger lozenges for an upset stomach (which is its main use), keep this in mind.
How To Stop Acid Reflux For Good
If you suffer from GERD, the only long-term solution will be a physical procedure that tightens the LES. Here at the Tampa Bay Reflux Center, we offer a few different options that you may wish to consider. For more information, contact our team of reflux experts!