Foods to eat and avoid for heartburn prevention

Foods to eat and avoid for heartburn prevention

Heartburn is a condition where patients experience pain in the throat and chest along with discomfort. It is caused by the upward flow of stomach acid that has managed to reach the esophagus. This causes inflammation and irritation of the food pipe. While several treatment options are available, it is crucial to change regular eating habits to alleviate symptoms and slowly but naturally recover from the condition. Here are foods to eat and avoid for heartburn.

Bananas
A natural antacid banana is one of the few fruits without citrus content. Bananas can be conveniently used for people with heartburn and acid reflux issues. Including one ripe banana in one’s daily meal plan is recommended to alleviate heartburn symptoms. However, it is to be used carefully for some patients as it might work as a trigger for them. It is better to consult a doctor or nutritionist to help inculcate food into one’s heartburn remedy routine to ensure it does not aggravate any other underlying conditions.

Yogurt
One of the key benefits of yogurt is that it helps prevent heartburn. A cooling agent is functional in finding relief from the burning sensation of heartburn. Yogurt works as that cooling agent. Not only is it useful in finding relief from the burning sensation, but regular intake will also help keep heartburn at bay.

Ginger
Ginger is a well-known remedy for heartburn. It has been in use since ancient times to help with gastrointestinal troubles. The easiest way to use ginger is by adding a slice or two of it when cooking meals. Alternatively, a person can also have drinks that use ginger in them. Ginger tea is an efficient remedy for heartburn. For easier incorporation, one can turn to ginger chews, gummies, or supplements if needed.

Chamomile tea
A cup of chamomile tea can relax the mind and the stomach before bedtime. It reduces the burning sensation in the stomach and helps balance the acid levels. Plus, its ability to relieve stress means it can also alleviate a heartburn trigger that could be causing flare-ups. The soothing tea can be brewed with fresh flowers or tea bags for a peaceful night’s sleep.

Foods to avoid
Spicy food
Chilies have the ability to cause irritation in the esophagus. Consistently including high spices food in one’s meals can act as a support for heartburn symptoms. Chili, curry, hot sauce, and peppers are spicy foods; eating them in moderation is best.

Tomatoes
Tomato and tomato-based products can be a trigger for heartburn. This includes everyday recipes like salsa, curry, spaghetti sauce, and pizza sauce. Since tomatoes are high in acid content, they can cause esophageal irritation and give rise to heartburn symptoms. Switch them out for tomato-free recipes and toppings.

Aerated beverages
Regular intake of carbonated beverages can be a huge contributor to heartburn. It increases the pressure in the stomach and on the diaphragm causing the acid to flow back into the esophagus. To avoid the elevation of symptoms, it is important to avoid these beverages in favor of plain or infused water.