Many people experience occasional heartburn or acid reflux. This is especially true at night, so knowing what foods help acid reflux at night can make a big difference. Heartburn is the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, and it’s often caused by what you eat. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “What foods neutralize stomach acid immediately?”, certain foods are known to help reduce, relieve, and even neutralize acid fast. Knowing what to eat when you have heartburn can help you get back to feeling comfortable sooner.
If you experience acid reflux more than twice a week, you may have a more serious condition called GERD. Schedule an appointment today.
Here are eight simple options if you’re wondering what foods neutralize stomach acid immediately and want quick relief.
Whole grains are grains that retain all parts of the seed (bran, germ, and endosperm). They can be consumed in their whole form or ground. Compared to refined grains, they are better sources of fiber, B vitamins, iron, folate, selenium, potassium, magnesium, and other important nutrients. The amount of fiber found in whole-grain foods may help absorb stomach acid.
Eat these whole grains: Brown rice, oatmeal, and whole-grain bread
Ginger has medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties that make it one of the best digestive aids. It’s alkaline, which means it falls on the opposite side of the pH scale from acidic foods. Ginger is one of the foods that can neutralize stomach acid immediately. The low level of acid eases irritation in the gastrointestinal tract. Ginger has been used throughout history for digestive issues.
Add ginger to: Smoothies, soups, and stir fry
Almost all fruits and vegetables reduce stomach acid. Root vegetables and green vegetables are high in fiber. Foods that are fibrous make you feel full, cutting down on overeating that may contribute to heartburn. With a few exceptions, fruits and vegetables are some of the best foods for neutralizing acid.
However, some fruits and vegetables can cause heartburn. Garlic and onions can stimulate acid production and lead to discomfort. Citrus fruits, like grapefruit and orange, are high-acidity foods. Tomato-based foods, like marinara sauce and ketchup, are also high in acid.
Eat these fruits and vegetables: Sweet potatoes, carrots, beets, asparagus, broccoli, and green beans
Yogurt is another good choice if you’re asking what foods neutralize stomach acid immediately, as it soothes an irritated esophagus and is a good source of protein. It’s also a probiotic food, containing live microorganisms that support healthy gut bacteria. Probiotics usually contain bacteria that add to the healthy microbes in your digestive system.
Add yogurt to: Fresh fruit, smoothies, and baked goods
Eating lean proteins can reduce symptoms of acid reflux. According to the USDA, a lean protein has fewer than 10 grams of total fat and 95 milligrams of cholesterol in a 3.5-ounce serving. The healthiest ways to prepare lean proteins are baked, broiled, poached, or grilled. High-fat meats and fried foods can lead to reflux by decreasing lower esophageal sphincter pressure and delaying stomach emptying.
Eat these lean proteins: Chicken, seafood, tofu, and egg whites
Legumes are a group of vegetables that include beans, peas, and lentils. They’re usually low in fat, have no cholesterol, and are high in nutrients like folate, potassium, iron, and magnesium. Legumes also have beneficial fats and fiber. They’re a good source of protein and a substitute for meat, which has more fat and cholesterol.
Try these recipes: Three-bean salad, couscous with peas and lemon, and lentil soup
Nuts and seeds add fiber, nutrients, and healthy monounsaturated fats to your diet. They may also help absorb stomach acid, reducing heartburn.
Eat these nuts and seeds: Almonds, peanuts, chia, pomegranate, and flaxseeds
These options are ideal if you’re thinking about what foods neutralize stomach acid immediately while still providing essential nutrients. Though eating too many fatty foods can trigger acid reflux, fat is a necessary nutrient. It’s essential for heart and brain health, but there are different types of fat. Replacing unhealthy fats with healthy fats may help. In addition, healthy fats also promote heart health because they can reduce the amount of bad cholesterol in the body.
Eat these healthy fats: Avocado, olive oil, walnuts, and soy products
If you’re still wondering what foods neutralize stomach acid immediately or find yourself planning your life around heartburn, it’s time to see a doctor. You should also see a gastroenterologist if you experience heartburn more than two times per week.
Don’t continue to live with acid reflux – schedule an appointment today!
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