5 Helpful Foods for Acid Reflux

If you suffer from acid reflux or GERD, you know what a (literal) pain it can be. Chest pain, burning chest and throat, and the feeling like you might actually have something wrong with your heart, not your stomach, is uncomfortable and worrisome.

If you are experiencing acid reflux or want to keep it on the DL, try incorporating some of these foods into your day to relieve some pain and pressure.

1. Oats

There's really nothing that oatmeal isn't good for, right? It's warm, it's comforting, it's a vessel for savory or sweet and, it's also high in fiber! Foods high in fiber digest slower which means that there isn't a quick acid production that can lead to pain. Add a 1-2 teaspoons of peanut butter and 1/2 a banana for a few extra grams of fiber and a comforting, and filling, breakfast.

2. Bananas

Bananas are one of the more starchy fruits out there meaning that they don't contain that much acid on their own, and also won't require as much to break down. In general, eating more alkaline fruits such as bananas and melon, as opposed to low pH options can be helpful in managing acid.

3. Broth Based Soups

Broth Based Soups could be classified as a "watery food," meaning that they contain high concentration of water. Water can actually dilute stomach acid and weaken it, meaning that you won't feel the burn when you consume more of these types of foods. Broth based soups are a good option for something warm and comforting, but also filling.

4. Green Veggies

Broccoli, green beans, leafy greens like kale and spinach, cucumbers and celery are all good options for people with acid issues. Not only are they naturally low in calories, fat, and sugar but they have lots of fiber and help to reduce stomach acid. Including more veggies in your diet is always a good option so here's another good reason to make sure you do that!

5. Lean Meats and Egg Whites

Foods naturally lower in fat can help in preventing acid reflux after eating. In comparison, fattier foods that are harder to break down can cause bad digestive upset. Chicken breast, lean turkey, fish and egg whites are all good options for proteins when dealing with acid reflux. Avoid eating ground beef or chicken thighs/skin and egg yolks for a little while if acid is a problem.

Honorable mention: GINGER! Ginger can be really helpful in alleviating symptoms of acid reflux and aiding in heartburn (and also nausea). In fact, it's one of the top ways to help your symptoms as it can help with inflammation and also reduce stomach acid. Grab some ginger root and add it to your cooking, or sprinkle some dried ginger into your (non-spicy) meal.

If you have acid reflux or heartburn, be sure to incorporate more of these foods into your diet and see how you do!*

*As always, if you are having issues, be sure to consult with a doctor!