What should people with acid reflux eat

However, you should never drink it at full concentration because it's a strong acid that can irritate the esophagus. Instead, put a small amount in warm water and drink it with meals. Lemon juice is generally considered very acidic, but a small amount of lemon juice mixed with warm water and honey has an alkalizing effect that neutralizes stomach acid.

Also, honey has natural antioxidants, which protect the health of cells. If you have heartburn two or more times a week and changes to your diet or eating pattern haven't helped, consult a doctor.

A gastroenterologist a doctor who specializes in the digestive system can perform tests to measure the acidity in your stomach and see if frequent acid reflux has damaged your esophagus. GERD is often treatable through a combination of lifestyle changes and medication. But persistent symptoms of reflux need thorough evaluation by a gastroenterologist who can find the underlying cause and discuss available treatment options.

GERD is an ongoing condition that often requires more attention than over-the-counter treatments can offer. The Heartburn Center at Johns Hopkins Medicine provides personalized care to help patients find relief. Health Home Wellness and Prevention.

Foods That May Cause Heartburn Foods commonly known to be heartburn triggers cause the esophageal sphincter to relax and delay the digestive process, letting food sit in the stomach longer, says Gupta.

Foods that are high in fat, salt or spice such as: Fried food Fast food Pizza Potato chips and other processed snacks Chili powder and pepper white, black, cayenne Fatty meats such as bacon and sausage Cheese Other foods that can cause the same problem include: Tomato-based sauces Citrus fruits Chocolate Peppermint Carbonated beverages "Moderation is key since many people may not be able to or want to completely eliminate these foods," says Gupta.

High-fiber foods Fibrous foods make you feel full so you're less likely to overeat, which may contribute to heartburn. So, load up on healthy fiber from these foods: Whole grains such as oatmeal, couscous and brown rice.

Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots and beets. Green vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli and green beans. Alkaline foods Foods fall somewhere along the pH scale an indicator of acid levels. Oatmeal — Filling, hearty and healthy, this comforting breakfast standard also works for lunch. Fennel — This low-acid crunchy vegetable has a mild licorice flavor and a natural soothing effect. Ginger — Steep caffeine-free ginger tea or chew on low-sugar dried ginger for a natural tummy tamer.

Worst Foods for Reflux In general, anything that is fatty, acidic or highly caffeinated should be avoided. The worst foods for acid reflux list includes: Coffee and tea — Caffeinated beverages aggravate acid reflux.

Opt for teas without caffeine. Carbonated beverages — The bubbles expand in your stomach, creating more pressure and pain. Choose plain water or decaf iced tea. Chocolate — This treat has a trifecta of acid reflux problems: caffeine, fat and cocoa.

Grapefruit and orange — The high acidity of citrus fruits relaxes the esophagus sphincter and worsens symptoms. Alcohol — This has a double whammy effect. Alcohol relaxes the sphincter valve but it also stimulates acid production in the stomach. Fried foods — These are some of the worst foods for reflux. Skip the french fries, onion rings and fried chicken — cook on the grill or in the oven at home. Late-night snacks — Avoid eating anything in the two hours before you go to bed.

Also, you can try eating four to five smaller meals throughout the day instead of two to three large meals. Avoid tight clothing around your waist. If your clothing puts pressure on your abdomen when you eat, this can in turn put pressure on your stomach and LES. Eat to maintain a healthy weight. Not carrying extra pounds eliminates a source of pressure inside your abdomen. By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Health Topics. Health Tools. Reviewed: June 14, Medically Reviewed. Items that people with GERD are often advised to avoid include: Alcohol Caffeine Carbonated beverages Chocolate Citrus fruits and juices Tomatoes and tomato-based foods Garlic Mint Onions Spicy foods Fatty foods Fried foods 1,2 Some of these items — including fatty foods, chocolate, peppermint, and alcohol — are thought to worsen GERD symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter LES , the ring of muscle that separates your stomach from your esophagus.

The following replacements may help you avoid symptoms. In addition to changing what you eat, your doctor may ask you to change the way you eat. Common recommendations include: Eat smaller meals.

Editorial Sources and Fact-Checking. Mayo Clinic. March 9, Cleveland Clinic. July 11, Acid Reflux.