Acid reflux can be managed by choosing fruits that are alkaline and not acidic. Discover these 6 fruits that can calm your stomach.
Acid reflux, characterized by the upward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus, can cause burning sensations, pain, nausea, and discomfort. Several factors can trigger acid reflux, and one of them is an unhealthy diet. Spicy, acidic, fatty, or caffeinated foods can worsen acid reflux symptoms.
Therefore, individuals suffering from acid reflux need to pay attention to what they eat, including fruits. Some fruits can help soothe the stomach and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Here are 6 fruits you can consume if you're dealing with acid reflux.
Stomach-Saving Fruits
Fruits that are good for acid reflux sufferers are those that possess alkaline properties and are not overly acidic. These alkaline fruits can neutralize excess stomach acid and prevent irritation in the esophagus.
Additionally, these fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that benefit overall health.
According to Health Central, here are some fruits that can calm your stomach:
Bananas
Bananas are one of the easiest fruits for the body to digest. They also have a pH of around 5, meaning they are not too acidic. Bananas are rich in potassium, which helps regulate the body's acid-base balance.
Coconut
Coconut is a tropical fruit with numerous health benefits. It is not acidic, so it won't irritate the stomach. Coconut contains healthy fats, fiber, and electrolytes that aid in brain function, heart health, and digestion.
Melons and Watermelon
Melons and watermelon are refreshing, low-calorie fruits. They also have a high pH, ranging from 6 to 7, indicating their non-acidic nature. These fruits are packed with vitamin A, C, and lycopene, protecting the body from free radicals.
Papaya
Papaya is an exotic fruit known for its appealing taste and color. It is low in acidity and rich in carotenes and vitamin C. Papaya contains the enzyme papain, which aids in protein digestion and reduces inflammation in the stomach.
Berries
Berries such as blackberries, raspberries, and strawberries are delicious and nutritious. They have a high pH, around 5 to 6, indicating they are not too acidic. Berries are also rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, and fiber, boosting the immune system and preventing infections.
Peaches
Peaches are seasonal fruits with a sweet taste and fragrant aroma. They have a high pH, around 6 to 7, showing they are not acidic. Peaches contain vitamin A, C, E, K, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Fruits that Trigger Acid Reflux
While fruits are generally beneficial for overall health, some fruits should be avoided by individuals with acid reflux. These fruits are highly acidic and can stimulate excess stomach acid production.
According to UH Hospitals, here are some fruits that can trigger acid reflux:
Oranges
Oranges are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants but are highly acidic, with a pH of around 3. Oranges can relax the esophageal sphincter, the valve that prevents stomach acid from flowing into the esophagus. This can lead to acid reflux symptoms like heartburn, pain, and coughing.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are commonly used in cooking and salads, and they are nutrient-rich, containing vitamins A, C, K, folate, and potassium. However, tomatoes also contain citric and malic acid, which can lead to excessive stomach acid production. This may result in symptoms like nausea, bloating, and regurgitation.
Pineapples
Pineapples are tropical fruits with a sweet and acidic taste. They also contain enzymes like bromelain, which aids digestion. However, pineapples are highly acidic, with a pH of around 3. Pineapples can either cause or exacerbate acid reflux due to their extreme acidity.
In addition to avoiding acid-triggering fruits, it's essential to treat your condition correctly. Consult with a doctor to get the appropriate treatment for your condition. Additionally, adopting other healthy lifestyle practices, such as quitting smoking, reducing stress, and maintaining an ideal body weight, can also make a significant difference in managing acid reflux.
Source: healthcentral.com, uhhospitals
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