Vitamin A and C Vitamins A and C are powerful antioxidants that have been shown to be effective against GERD symptoms. These antioxidants also help to protect the body from infections and illnesses, which could worsen or trigger acid reflux.
If your bones have been aching lately, you're feeling down in the dumps, are having sleeping problems, or experiencing acid reflux, you may think these are simply signs of aging. These symptoms on their own may not signal a major problem, but put them together and it could mean that you're not getting enough vitamin D.
Multivitamins, especially the ones containing zinc, iron, or calcium, can aggravate the symptoms of GERD including heartburn.
Conditions that magnesium may help treat:
Acid reflux & heartburn - magnesium will reduce spasm of the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent the release of acid into the esophagus. Magnesium is also needed for stomach acid production, so deficiency can be an indicator of low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria).
Drinks such as ginger tea, certain fruit and vegetable juices, and plant-based milks may benefit people experiencing acid reflux and heartburn. Avoiding citrus juices, carbonated beverages, and alcohol can also help to reduce symptom frequency and severity.
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.
Try 200 to 400 mg of magnesium citrate or glycinate twice a day.
Vitamin D for GERD: Final Verdict
The discovery of vitamin D receptors in the gastrointestinal tract has opened up a whole new avenue of insights in its role in digestive health. Therefore, correcting vitamin D deficiency is a safe way of addressing the burning problem of GERD.
Avocado: Despite being high in fat, avocados are rich in healthy fats, which can settle your stomach and prevent acid reflux symptoms.
The researchers also found that zinc treatment in healthy humans is faster and more effective at lowering gastric acid levels than omeprazole: a single dose works within seconds and lasts for about three hours.
Magnesium carbonate -- Magnesium carbonate is another popular, bioavailable form of magnesium that actually turns into magnesium chloride when it mixes with the hydrochloric acid in our stomachs. It is a good choice for people suffering from indigestion and acid reflux, since it contains antacid properties.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that a bioactive compound found in turmeric, known as curcumin, alleviates acid reflux. While there are few clinical trials to prove this claim, there are many benefits that may lead to alleviation of acid reflux due to the anti-inflammatory properties it contains.
Acid reflux & heartburn
Like other muscles, the esophageal sphincter that separates the stomach from the esophagus needs magnesium to function properly. Without enough magnesium, the sphincter may spasm, allowing the acid to travel up and irritate the sensitive esophageal lining.
Vitamins A, C, and D are powerful antioxidants that have shown to be beneficial against GERD symptoms. Ideally, a balanced diet should cover the necessary vitamins, but vitamin supplements can be helpful for any nutritional gaps in a diet. Patients can receive a blood test to determine any nutrient deficiencies.
Is yogurt a good choice? 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.
Foods to Eat on an Acid Reflux Diet
Noncitrus fruits: Apples, bananas, blueberries, and strawberries are safe bets.
The most common cause is food that's acidic or high in fat—like citrus fruits, tomatoes, onions, chocolate, coffee, cheese, and peppermint. Spicy foods or large meals can also be the root of distress. Other sources of heartburn include aspirin or ibuprofen, as well as some sedatives and blood pressure medications.
Heartburn occurring more than twice per week is a symptom of GERD and may require stronger or prescription medications. Persistent heartburn can also be a symptom of other conditions, such as Barrett's esophagus, hiatal hernia, or esophageal cancer.
If you have frequent or constant heartburn (more than twice a week or heartburn everyday), you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD is a digestive disorder that affects the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a muscle that connects the esophagus and the stomach.