Acid reflux, also known as heartburn, can be painful, troublesome and embarrassing. Some of the symptoms include the distinctive burning sensation in the chest, coughing and belching. You might be treating the problem by chewing antacids by the fistful or taking prescribed medications, which can get expensive. Did you know that you can actually reduce acid reflux with the food you choose?

Acid reflux is caused when the muscle at the top of the stomach doesn’t work properly and stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. The acid then eats away at the lining of the esophagus, causing the burning sensation. Over time, the reflux can cause severe damage to the esophagus and can even lead to esophageal cancer.

While some foods, such as tomatoes, chocolate and caffeinated beverages can make acid reflux and heartburn substantially worse, other foods can actually reduce reflux and help ease the symptoms.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal can help ease the discomfort of acid reflux and makes a great breakfast or even a snack. One of the benefits of oatmeal is that it can actually help absorb the excess acid. Instead of popping an antacid, try eating a bowl of oatmeal instead.

Salad

Salad is good for you on a number of levels, but it’s especially good if you have acid reflux. The fiber in the salad can help your digestive system work better, reducing reflux symptoms. Be sure to avoid tomatoes or onions, and don’t add cheese. A small amount of an acidic dressing is okay, but don’t go overboard. Keep dressing to one tablespoonful or less.

Chicken

To add protein to your diet, chicken is a great choice. You can eat it baked, grilled or broiled, but don’t fry it. You should also remove the skin, as it is high in fat, which can increase acid reflux symptoms. Adding grilled chicken to a salad makes a great dinner for someone who is having trouble with acid reflux.

Fish and other seafood

Fish is another excellent protein to add to your diet to help reduce reflux. Although it can be higher in fat, it’s high in the type of fat your body needs — omega-3 fatty acids. Try to stick with wild-caught, rather than farm raised. Like chicken, broil, grill or bake your fish and don’t add creamy sauces to it. Other seafood, like shrimp, lobster and shellfish are also good.

Parsley

Although parsley makes a lovely garnish, it’s also recognized as an herb that can help with stomach irritation. Add fresh parsley to your soups, salads and other foods and be sure to eat it!

Couscous

Complex carbohydrates are great foods to help with acid reflux. They can help absorb the acid and they are high in fiber. Add these to your meals to prevent post-meal reflux and indigestions.

Ginger

Ginger is one of the all-time best foods to eat to help with indigestion. Although it can also be taken as a capsule, adding it to foods in its whole form is extremely helpful. Seasoning your fish with ginger before grilling it and serving it with a side of couscous or bulgur wheat makes a filling meal that will help ease acid reflux.

For more information on the foods that help to reduce acid reflux, be sure to visit Reflux Remedy at refluxremedy.com today!