Top 10 Drinks to Help Stop Acid Reflux and Foods/Drinks to Avoid
Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, happens when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning feeling in your chest. Certain foods and drinks can trigger or worsen acid reflux, but some can help ease it. Let’s look at the top 10 drinks that can stop acid reflux and what to avoid to keep it under control.
10 Drinks to Help Stop Acid Reflux
1. Water: Staying hydrated with water helps balance the stomach's acidity. Drinking water between meals also helps flush out any acid in the esophagus.
2. Ginger Tea: Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. A warm cup of ginger tea can soothe the stomach and reduce acid reflux. Avoid adding sugar or honey, as they can worsen symptoms.
3. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile is gentle on the stomach and helps reduce stress, which can be a trigger for acid reflux. It has calming properties that make it a good drink to ease symptoms.
4. Aloe Vera Juice: Aloe vera is known for its healing abilities. Drinking small amounts of pure aloe vera juice can soothe the lining of the stomach and reduce acid production.
5. Coconut Water: Coconut water is naturally alkaline, which helps balance the pH levels in the stomach. It is also a great source of electrolytes, keeping you hydrated without causing reflux.
6. Low-fat Milk: Full-fat milk can make acid reflux worse, but low-fat or skim milk can be soothing. It helps neutralize the stomach acid.
7. Almond Milk: Almond milk is alkaline and can help neutralize stomach acid. It is a great alternative to cow’s milk, especially if you are lactose intolerant.
8. Cucumber Water: Infusing water with cucumber slices is a refreshing and soothing drink. It helps to keep you hydrated and can be calming to the digestive system.
9. Fennel Tea: Fennel has been used for centuries to help digestion. Drinking fennel tea can help reduce bloating and acid reflux symptoms.
10. Herbal Teas (without mint) Herbal teas like licorice, marshmallow root, and slippery elm can soothe the esophagus and stomach. Just avoid peppermint or spearmint teas, as they can worsen acid reflux.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
Citrus Fruits and Juices: Oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and their juices are very acidic and can worsen reflux symptoms. Even small amounts can trigger a reaction.
Tomatoes and Tomato-based Products: Tomatoes are high in acid and can cause heartburn. This includes products like tomato sauce, ketchup, and salsa.
Caffeinated Drinks: Coffee, tea, and soda contain caffeine, which can relax the muscle between the stomach and esophagus, leading to acid reflux. Even decaf coffee can still trigger symptoms in some people.
Alcohol: Alcohol relaxes the muscles of the esophagus, which makes it easier for acid to escape from the stomach. Beer, wine, and cocktails can all trigger reflux.
Chocolate: Chocolate contains both caffeine and fat, both of which can increase acid reflux. It also has a compound called theobromine that can relax the esophageal sphincter.
Fried and Fatty Foods: Foods high in fat, like fried chicken, French fries, and burgers, can slow down digestion and increase the chances of reflux.
Carbonated Beverages: Sodas and sparkling water create gas and bloating, which puts pressure on the stomach and can force acid back up into the esophagus.
Mint: While mint is soothing for some digestive issues, it can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making reflux worse. This includes peppermint tea, candies, and chewing gum.
Onions and Garlic: These ingredients can trigger acid production in the stomach and lead to heartburn, especially when eaten raw.
Final Tips
Eat smaller meals throughout the day instead of large meals.
Avoid lying down immediately after eating, as this can cause acid to flow back up.
Keep track of foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms, as everyone’s body reacts differently.
By choosing the right drinks and avoiding common triggers, you can manage acid reflux and prevent discomfort. Stay mindful of what you eat and drink, and you'll feel better in no time!
Avoid lying down immediately after eating, as this can cause acid to flow back up.
Keep track of foods and drinks that trigger your symptoms, as everyone’s body reacts differently.
By choosing the right drinks and avoiding common triggers, you can manage acid reflux and prevent discomfort. Stay mindful of what you eat and drink, and you'll feel better in no time!
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