The eating season is behind us. And now the days of dealing with indigestion and heartburn set in, especially if you suffer from an ulcer, acid reflux, or the dreaded GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease).
Acid reflux is a common medical condition that can range in severity from mild to serious. GERD is the chronic, more severe form of acid reflux. In Canada, GERD is the most prevalent acid-related disorder. Approximately 13% of Canadians suffer from GERD symptoms weekly. Almost one quarter of the population (24%) experiences heartburn daily or more frequently.
If you are dealing with a stomach acid imbalance that is causing you to; have continuous heartburn, feel a burning sensation in your throat, belch constantly, have chest pain, and have a consistent dry cough, it might time to visit your doctor to discuss your condition.
If you suffer from occasional acid reflux, doctors recommend losing excess weight, eating smaller meals, and avoiding alcohol and nicotine.
Dietary tweaks also can be key when trying to alleviate symptoms. Here are a few foods to try:
Bananas. This low-acid fruit can help those with acid reflux by coating an irritated esophageal lining and thereby helping to combat discomfort. Due to their high-fibre content, bananas also can help strengthen your digestive system — which can help ward off indigestion. One soluble fibre found in bananas is pectin, which helps move stomach contents through your digestive tract. And that’s a good thing — because food that sticks around will only continue to generate acid.
Oatmeal. Like other high-fibre foods, oatmeal may help stave off acid reflux symptoms. Fibre not only promotes intestinal health, but it also reduces constipation and makes you feel full a long while after eating it. And, of course, when you feel full, you are less likely to overeat and therefore less likely to regurgitate what’s in your stomach into your esophagus.
Green vegetables. Asparagus, spinach, kale and brussels sprouts all are highly alkaline, meaning they’re good for your stomach and digestive system. Being naturally low in fat and sugar, vegetables also help lessen stomach acid.
Speak with your health care provider to come up with an individualized plan that’s right for you, and if you have questions about what kinds of foods should be part of your diet. Some foods may help alleviate symptoms in one person but aggravate them in another.
