10 Foods and Drinks that Help Acid Reflux

Woody Short

6 years ago

Learn more about the best foods and drinks that help acid reflux and how you can incorporate them as part of your daily diet

We’ve all had an episode of heartburn here and there, and we all know just how uncomfortable it can get. But, what if you could add foods and drinks that help acid reflux to your daily diet, and finally say goodbye to that pesky situation?

Acid reflux or heartburn is actually a gastroesophageal reflux, which happens when the stomach acid flows back into the food pipe due to a weakening of the valve that connects the stomach to the esophagus.

The sensation of burning in the throat and chest area, is actually a response to the presence of the stomach acid in that part of the body and, as many know, it can be quite irritating to have a non-stop episode of heartburn.

So, what can you drink when you have acid reflux? It is important to pay close attention to what we ingest as part of our routine, since many of our favorite drinks are actually huge triggers of heartburn (i.e.: coffee, carbonated beverages, alcohol, cirrus juices, chocolate, etc.).

Avoiding these triggers is not complicated, and in fact, you may find the changes quite tasty. So, if you are wondering what can you drink when you have acid reflux? Here are some of the best (and simple!) examples:

Milk: as long as you stick to skim milk or even fat free, you can see a change in your symptoms. Almond milk is another great example, as it is alkaline and has the capacity to neutralize acidity, which whole milk can’t.
Ginger: this root is a natural soother for stomach acid and actually promotes a better stomach health. Ginger tea can be lightly sweetened with honey and even add a drop of milk.
Yogurt: as with many dairy products, sticking to the skim or fat-free kind is best to actually alleviate heartburn.
Coconut Water: unsweetened coconut water is another great example of the best foods and drinks that help acid reflux, as it is packed with electrolytes which promote a better pH balance.

As to what foods are good for acid reflux? Thankfully, you don’t have to say goodbye to your favorite meals, as many are actually good for your stomach acid.

Some of the best foods and drinks that help acid reflux and will still keep you satisfied include:

Bananas: while citrus fruits have the particularity of agitating your stomach acid, bananas are highly alkaline, which will lower symptoms, but also the frequency of your acid reflux episodes.
Green Vegetables: think of asparagus, brussels sprouts, kale and spinach. These are not only alkaline, but promote a better digestion and are packed with nutrients.
Oatmeal: the power of oatmeal is undeniable. Its thick consistency and texture will cover the lining of your stomach walls alleviating almost immediately the appliance of heartburn.
Chicken and Turkey: these two meats are great for those taking extra care of their health. Whether you broil, grill or sauté them, these will kick your acid reflux to the curb. Just make sure you remove the skin and avoid deep-frying them at all costs.
Cous-Cous and Rice: as complex carbohydrates, these two (wild rice included) are a great source of vitamins and nutrients, but also fantastic allies in the battle against acid reflux.
Wild Salmon & Shellfish: not only are these options super delicious, but they are an outstanding source of protein and omega 3 and 6. As always, frying them is not recommended as heavy condensation of oil can actually upset your stomach acid, instead of alleviating your symptoms.

These foods and drinks that help acid reflux are just a small example of the variety of meals and drinks you can still enjoy while helping your system fight out that bothersome heartburn.

As always, it is recommended that you consult with your Doctor in cases where your heartburn is too persistent as it may be a sign of a more complex issue, such as stomach ulcers.