What to eat when you have heartburn: Foods that ease acid reflux |
Heartburn is a common digestive issue caused by acid reflux, where stomach acid irritates the esophagus. Choosing the right foods that fight heartburn can significantly reduce symptoms and improve digestive comfort. Incorporating low-acid fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and alkaline foods into your diet helps soothe the stomach and prevent acid buildup. Understanding which heartburn-friendly foods support digestion can empower you to manage reflux naturally and avoid flare-ups. Consistently eating these foods can improve your overall gut health and wellbeing.
Best foods that fight heartburn naturally
1. Low‑acid fruits
- Bananas and melons (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew) are mild, naturally low in acid, and cushioning to the stomach lining
- Pears, apples, and grapes also tend to be gentle on the esophagus
2. High‑fiber whole grains
- Oatmeal is filling, soothe‑friendly, and rich in soluble fiber
- Brown rice, whole‑grain bread, couscous, and similar complex carbs support healthy digestion and help buffer acidity
3. Vegetables that ease reflux
- Green, non‑acidic veggies like broccoli, asparagus, green beans, cauliflower, and celery are soothing and low in fat
- Root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, offer alkalizing fiber that can ease symptoms
4. Lean proteins and egg whites
- Opt for skinless chicken, turkey, grilled fish, or other baked/poached lean meats—easy on digestion and less likely to trigger reflux
- Egg whites, being low in fat and acid, provide gentle, protein-rich nourishment
5. Alkaline and watery foods
- Foods rich in water content, cucumber, lettuce, as well as broth-based soups and herbal teas, help dilute stomach acid
- Nuts (like almonds) and fennel, being alkaline, can help neutralize acid and soothe digestion
6. Digestion‑soothing herbs and alternatives
- Ginger, known for its anti‑inflammatory and alkaline benefits, may calm digestive irritation—try ginger tea for heartburn relief
- Parsley and aloe vera (non‑latex, anthraquinone-free form) have historically supported upset stomachs and reflux relief
7. Low‑fat dairy and plant milks
- Non‑fat milk and low‑fat yogurt buffer stomach acid mildly and supply beneficial probiotics
- Almond milk, with its higher alkaline pH, may help neutralise stomach acid for some individuals
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