Egg Whites: Eggs are a popular food item in terms of easing acid reflux, but some people find that the yolks have a high fat content which can trigger acid reflux. Egg whites are the low-fat, low-cholesterol option to help with acid reflux.
Some people with GERD find that the yolk of the egg aggravates their symptoms. The good news is that you can easily enjoy just the egg whites. To avoid butter and oil, eat just the white of a hard boiled egg. A light scramble in a little bit of butter or coconut oil is another option.
While whole eggs are relatively pH neutral, egg white is one of the few food products that is naturally alkaline, with an initial pH value that can be as low as 7.6 at time of lay, but with increasing alkalinity as the egg ages, and can reach pH of 9.2.
The best and worst foods for acid reflux
The ideal foods for calming acid reflux symptoms include green vegetables, root vegetables, whole grains, eggs, lean meats and seafood, healthy fats, ginger, non-citrus fruits, fennel, and herbal tea.
For mild, occasional heartburn, over-the-counter medications such as antacids and histamine blockers can help relieve symptoms. Always read the product label before taking an antacid or histamine blocker and never take a larger dose or take doses more frequently than directed.
Whole grains — High fiber, whole-grains like brown rice, oatmeal, and whole grain breads help stop symptoms of acid reflux. They are a good source of fiber and may help absorb stomach acid. Lean protein — Low-fat, lean sources of protein also reduce symptoms. Good choices are chicken, seafood, tofu, and egg whites.
Honey may work to reduce inflammation in the esophagus. Honey's texture allows it to better coat the mucous membrane of the esophagus. This can contribute to longer-lasting relief. Honey is natural and can be used along with other traditional treatments.
A healthy eating guide for reflux
Breakfast - a bowl of high fibre cereal such as untoasted muesli, weetbix or porridge with fresh or tinned fruit and reduced fat or skim milk and/ or wholemeal or grain toast with minimal margarine and honey or vegemite.
Yogurt that is not too sour is also excellent for acid reflux, because of the probiotics that help normalize bowel function. Yogurt also provides protein, and soothes stomach discomfort, often providing a cooling sensation. It is easy to choose foods by looking them up to see how acidic they are.
Egg whites are a good option. Limit egg yolks, though, which are high in fat and may trigger reflux symptoms.
Salmon, for example, contains omega-3 fatty acids, which benefit the heart, joints, and eyes. It may also protect against certain kinds of cancer. As with chicken, the most effective GERD recipes for fish will limit or exclude spices and heavy seasonings to avoid heartburn issues.
A person with acid reflux should avoid foods containing refined grains, including white bread, as these products contain very little fiber. There are many different types of whole grain bread a person can choose from.
And while egg whites are also a suitable option, egg yolks are rich in fat, which may trigger GERD symptoms.
Drinking water, low fat milk, and herbal teas may help manage it. Alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and sodas may worsen symptoms, however. Acid reflux, or heartburn, occurs when stomach acid flows up into a person's esophagus, or food pipe.
Research says that acid reflux can happen due to radicals which damage cells lining the digestive tract. Consuming honey here can play an imperative role as it controls damage by removing free radicals. It also reduces inflammation in the food pipe.
Oatmeal has been a whole-grain breakfast favorite for generations. It is a good source of fiber, so it keeps you feeling full and promotes regularity. Oats also absorb stomach acid and reduce symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Avocado: Despite being high in fat, avocados are rich in healthy fats, which can settle your stomach and prevent acid reflux symptoms.
It is claimed Manuka Honey helps with reflux symptoms by “coating the stomach and oesophagus and healing the damages in the tissue and lining provoked by acid reflux”. Some people swear by having a spoon of Manuka Honey up to four times a day, 20 minutes before meals and before bed time.
Eating large meals or eating late at night. Eating certain foods (triggers) such as fatty or fried foods. Drinking certain beverages, such as alcohol or coffee. Taking certain medications, such as aspirin.
If you are having stomach related issues like constipation, acidity or even cough, cold, keep sipping on warm water for major relief.
When you have frequent GERD symptoms, like heartburn, eating high-fat dairy products like cheese can aggravate your symptoms. Furthermore, cold dairy products like ice cream can actually numb and inhibit the lower esophageal sphincter's function. As a result, stomach acid can backwash up into the esophagus much easier.
The bottom line. Many doctors would advise against eating chocolate if you have acid reflux. As with many other conditions, your reflux will likely be unique to you. This means that what triggers and what improves acid reflux symptoms can vary depending on the person.
2. Bananas. This low-acid fruit can help neutralize stomach acid by coating an irritated esophageal lining. And not only are bananas alkaline, they're also rich in pectin — a soluble fiber that helps keeps food flowing nicely through the digestive tract.