Good Foods for Acid Reflux Prevention
As many sufferers of frequent heartburn know, enjoying a plate of marinara or hearty Mexican food will often leave you miserable come bedtime. It is estimated that nearly 15 million Americans suffer from frequent heartburn or acid reflux, also known as GERD. But did you there are also good foods for Acid Reflux? Along with the timing of your meals and size of portions, there are also foods you can eat that help stave off that burning sensation in your throat and chest that accompanies acid reflux.
Fiber
Studies have shown that diets rich in fiber may help reduce acid reflux in up to 20% of sufferers. Fill up your plate with vegetables, whole grain bread, fruits, and beans. The best foods are the ones that have been the least processed – for breads, this usually means breads with crusts that have nuts and grains baked in.
Since many dessert foods, especially chocolate, contain heartburn-inducing ingredients, consider foods like grapes or watermelon for dessert. Their sweetness will help satisfy your cravings, while their water content will help dilute and rinse the esophagus of stomach acids.
Like all foods, however, moderation is the key. Two exceptions to this fiber-rich diet rule are tomatoes and citrus fruits, both of which are high in acid and are known acid reflux triggers.
Beverages
Beverages such as water, tonic water, decaffeinated tea, and low-fat milk are ideal companions to your meal. These drinks do not contain caffeine or carbonation, which can trigger reflux, especially at dinner.
Water also helps dilute your food, aiding in digestion. A glass of water both before and after your meal will help you avoid overeating and will also help wash food particles and acid down the esophagus.
Eating and drinking good foods for acid reflux, along with enjoying a diet low in fat, will not only keep acid reflux at bay, but will also help you lose extra weight slowly and effectively. Excess weight is also a major contributing factor to acid reflux. Also remember to avoid lying down for at least two hours after your meal to allow your stomach acids time to process and your meal time to fully digest.
