FOODS TO EAT That Help Heartburn
Since that is a lengthy list of foods you might want to stay away from, we thought we would provide you with a list of foods that might have the opposite effect and lessen acid reflux symptoms. The foods below have anti-inflammatory properties and are alkaline.
Naturally, none of these foods can treat GERD, but if you have excessive stomach acid and inflammation, they may be of some assistance.
- Ginger
- Turmeric
- Fennel
- Brown Rice
- Oatmeal
- Non-citrus fruits
- Mild Green Vegetables (lettuce, green beans, celery, sweet peppers, etc.)
- Lean meats and seafood
- Egg whites (limit yolks due to fat content)
- Healthy fats (flaxseed, avocado, etc.)
HOW CAN I PREVENT MY SYMPTOMS OF GERD?
As you can see, if you have acid reflux disease, or GERD, there are a lot of foods you should avoid. But since every situation is unique, you might or might not have symptoms after consuming one of these foods. This food list aims to provide you with broad recommendations for foods to stay away from.
That being said, maintaining a food journal is the most dependable method of learning which foods to avoid. Keep track of your food intake and note any symptoms you may have after.
It’s important to consider the circumstances that trigger your symptoms as well. Do you feel symptoms, for example, before you eat or after a heavy lunch? Or maybe you feel symptoms at night after having a late dinner or dessert? Additionally, instead of eating two or three large meals throughout the day, try eating four to five smaller meals.
If you have any additional concerns about avoiding GERD or acid reflux symptoms, speak with your doctor. Your doctor might prescribe you medication to treat your heartburn, depending on how severe your symptoms are.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPI), histamine-2 blockers (H2), and promotility agents are commonly prescribed medications. These are usually temporary medications to treat acid reflux while you modify your diet.
WHEN TO SEE A GENERAL SURGEON
It is possible to manage GERD and acid reflux on your own because they are typically not life-threatening conditions. However, esophageal cancer may result from these conditions if they do not get better.
See a doctor if you find that your symptoms are getting worse over time.
Additional indicators of severe acid reflux disease (GERD) include pain in the arms, jaw, or chest. Additionally, you should see a physician or surgeon as soon as possible if you have dyspnea. Furthermore, you might require surgery if, even after two weeks of medication, your symptoms do not get better.
