The Stomach is the most vital organ in our body that helps digest food using hydrochloric acid.. When stomach acid goes back into the food pipe (acid reflux), it causes a burning sensation more commonly known as heartburn or acid reflux.
Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux and if you suffer it more than twice a week it is more likely that you have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It causes a burning pain in the lower chest area after eating. Other symptoms associated with GERD are persistent dry cough, nausea, vomiting, pain while swallowing etc.
Mostly, over the counter medicine and treatments are used to cure heartburn, however, a change in lifestyle and diet can help you keep the heartburn at bay and provide you relief. Here are top 5 foods that can help you with acid reflux
1- Vegetables:
According to recent studies, vegetable likes cucumber, spinach, broccoli, kale and radish have antacid effects that help restore natural gastrointestinal balance and sooth the stomach lining that causes the burning sensation leading to acid reflux.
2- Ginger:
Rich in antioxidants add grated ginger to your tea next time you feel heartburn. Ginger is seen to have anti-inflammatory properties that helps in relieving many gastrointestinal problems. Where ac in case of acid reflux it reduces the likelihood of the stomach acid going up into the esophagus.
3- Oatmeal:
Oatmeal is high in fiber and reduce symptoms associated with acid reflux. Food with high fiber content like wholegrain bread and rice are an excellent source to reduce acid reflux as fiber promotes intestinal health.
4- Non-citrus fruit:
Fruits such as banana and melon are non-acidic in nature and less likely to cause acid reflux. For example banana is high on fiber and a low acid fruit and coats the stomach lining that causes discomfort. Whereas, melon is an alkaline fruit and a good source of magnesium (a mineral found in acid reflux medicines).
5- Healthy fats:
Food rich in healthy fats such as walnuts, flaxseed, avocados, olive oil and sesame oil are also seen to reduce acid reflux symptoms.
If you are suffering from persistent heartburn, consult a gastroenterologist. You can find and book an appointment with top gastroenterologist in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad through oladoc.com. You can also call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT doctor for your health concerns
