Acid reflux occurs when there is acid backflow from the stomach into the esophagus. This happens commonly but can cause complications or troublesome symptoms, such as heartburn. While just about everyone experiences episodes of heartburn from time to time, heartburn that occurs more than once a week, may indicate something more, such as GERD, gastroesophageal reflux disease.
The foods you eat affect the amount of acid your stomach produces. Eating the right kinds of food is key to controlling acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a severe, chronic form of acid reflux. For this reason, these foods – which are considered to have a low acidic level – can be safely included in your everyday diet. They are, in addition, very nutritious!
Fruits Group
Bananas
Bananas are generally considered to be alkaline in nature and not acidic. They are a good source of fiber and vitamin B6, and help with maintaining potassium, which is good for your heart and bones in general.
Raw bananas are probably the best source of nutrients. You can eat them at any time, for a snack or with a meal. In some low-acid baking recipes, you can mash them up as a substitute for a fat component.
Apples
Another low-acid option, apples make a great source of fiber as well. It can help you stay full longer, which can minimize overeating during the day. Fiber also helps with lowering cholesterol and preventing spikes in blood sugar. Even the skins, which have polyphenols and flavonoids, can be good for you.
Meats Group
Skinless Chicken
Skinless chicken makes a great low-acid diet staple. High in protein, a 4-ounce portion provides two-thirds of the recommended daily amount. While chicken is perfectly fine, deep-frying it in greasy oil will only trigger heartburn. Prepare it mindfully, with as few reflux-triggering spices as possible. We recommend cooking it in the oven or on the grill.
Fish
Fish is a nutritious component in any diet, specially a low-acid diet. Salmon, for example, contains omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit the heart, joints, and eyes. As with chicken, the most effective recipes for fish should exclude spices and heavy seasonings to avoid heartburn issues. And remember to skip the lemon!
Whole grains Group
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great breakfast option for people sticking to a low-acid diet. Oats can help improve cardiovascular health and stabilize blood sugar, among other benefits. When topping off a hot bowl of oatmeal with fruit, remember to avoid ones high in acid, like strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is a healthy choice whether or not you’re following a low-acid diet. It’s high in fiber, which can help regulate the digestive tract, plus it’s heart-healthy and chock-full of B vitamins, which can help keep the body full of energy.
Nuts Group
Almonds
Unlike other nuts such as pecans, cashews, and walnuts, almonds are generally alkaline. The monounsaturated fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids almonds contain can protect the heart and the high fiber content can keep you feeling full between meals. Use almonds in place of other nuts when preparing low-acid recipes.
If you eat other foods outside of these recommendations, and experience a case of heartburn consider adding Praxid, a natural digestive wellness supplement, to find relief and restore your digestive balance. Avoid over the counter medicines that block your acid and creates a major imbalance in your gut.
Praxid is a safe and natural daily multi-supplement providing a unique and patented combination of clinically studied ingredients that offers a 360-degree approach to gut health. Designed to help aid in the relief of heartburn and promote digestive health, Praxid’s patented formula contains 10 all-natural nutraceutical ingredients that provide immediate heartburn relief, while helping support, protect and balance the gastrointestinal tract.