Which fruits are safe for people with acid reflux. How can certain fruits help reduce stomach acid symptoms. What fruits should be avoided by those with GERD. Why are low-acid fruits beneficial for digestive health. When should you incorporate alkaline fruits into your diet.

Understanding Acid Reflux and the Role of Diet

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition characterized by frequent acid reflux, where stomach contents flow back into the esophagus. This can cause uncomfortable symptoms like heartburn and regurgitation. While medication is often prescribed to manage GERD, dietary changes can play a crucial role in symptom relief.

One key aspect of a GERD-friendly diet is focusing on low-acid foods, particularly fruits. But why does acidity matter? The pH scale measures how acidic or alkaline a substance is, with 7 being neutral. Anything below 7 is acidic, while above 7 is alkaline. The stomach naturally maintains a pH between 1 and 4 to aid in digestion. However, for those with GERD, highly acidic foods can exacerbate symptoms.

7 Low-Acid Fruits That May Help Alleviate GERD Symptoms

Incorporating low-acid fruits into your diet can help manage acid reflux symptoms. Here are seven fruits that are generally considered safe for people with GERD:

1. Bananas: Nature’s Antacid

Bananas are often touted as one of the best fruits for acid reflux sufferers. Why are bananas beneficial for those with GERD? Bananas have a pH of about 5.6, making them mildly acidic. However, they contain compounds that can help neutralize stomach acid and coat the esophagus, providing a protective effect.

• Rich in potassium, which can help counteract stomach acid
• High in fiber, promoting proper digestion
• Contains pectin, which helps move stomach contents through the digestive tract

2. Melons: A Sweet Solution

Melons, including honeydew, cantaloupe, and watermelon, are excellent choices for those with acid reflux. These fruits have a high water content and a pH ranging from 6.1 to 6.6, making them mildly acidic to nearly neutral.

• High water content helps dilute stomach acid
• Contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation
• Low in acid compared to many other fruits

3. Apples: An Alkaline Alternative

While apples are slightly acidic, with a pH ranging from 3.3 to 4, they can still be beneficial for those with GERD. How can apples help with acid reflux despite their acidity? Apples contain minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium that can help neutralize stomach acid.

• Rich in pectin, which can help soothe the digestive tract
• Contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation
• High water content can help dilute stomach acid

4. Pears: A Gentle Option

Pears are another excellent fruit choice for those with acid reflux. With a pH of around 3.5 to 4.6, they are less acidic than many other fruits. Pears are gentle on the digestive system and unlikely to trigger reflux symptoms in most people.

• High in fiber, aiding digestion and preventing constipation
• Contains quercetin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties
• Low in acid compared to citrus fruits

5. Coconut: A Tropical Treat

Coconut is often overlooked as a fruit, but it can be a great addition to a GERD-friendly diet. Fresh coconut has a pH of about 5.5 to 7.8, making it one of the least acidic fruits available. Why is coconut beneficial for those with acid reflux?

• Contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) that are easily digestible
• Rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion
• Has anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe the digestive tract

6. Papaya: Enzyme-Rich and Soothing

Papaya is another fruit that can be beneficial for those with GERD. While it has a pH of around 5.5 to 6.0, making it mildly acidic, papaya contains enzymes that can aid in digestion and potentially reduce acid reflux symptoms.

• Contains papain, an enzyme that helps break down proteins
• Rich in fiber, promoting healthy digestion
• Has anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe the digestive tract

7. Berries: Antioxidant Powerhouses

While some berries can be acidic, many varieties are relatively low in acid and can be enjoyed by those with GERD. Strawberries, for example, have a pH of around 3.0 to 3.5, but their high water content and beneficial compounds can make them a good choice for some people with acid reflux.

• Rich in antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation
• High in fiber, aiding digestion
• Contains vitamin C, which may help strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter

Fruits to Avoid with Acid Reflux

While many fruits can be beneficial for those with GERD, some are best avoided due to their high acidity. Which fruits should people with acid reflux steer clear of?

• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits)
• Tomatoes
• Pineapples
• Cranberries

These fruits have a pH typically below 4.0, making them highly acidic. They can potentially irritate the esophagus and trigger acid reflux symptoms in sensitive individuals.

The Science Behind Low-Acid Diets and GERD

The concept of a low-acid diet for managing GERD is based on the idea that reducing the overall acidity of the diet can help alleviate symptoms. But is there scientific evidence to support this approach?

Several studies have investigated the relationship between dietary acid load and GERD symptoms. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility found that a diet high in acid-forming foods was associated with an increased risk of reflux symptoms.

However, it’s important to note that the relationship between dietary acid and GERD is complex. The pH of a food doesn’t necessarily correlate directly with its effect on stomach acid production. Some acidic foods, like apples, may actually have an alkalizing effect on the body once metabolized.

Incorporating Low-Acid Fruits into Your Diet

How can you effectively incorporate these low-acid fruits into your diet to manage GERD symptoms? Here are some practical tips:

1. Start slowly: Introduce new fruits one at a time to identify any that may trigger symptoms.
2. Pay attention to portion sizes: Even low-acid fruits can potentially trigger symptoms if consumed in large quantities.
3. Consider timing: Some people find that eating fruit between meals rather than with meals can help reduce symptoms.
4. Experiment with different preparations: Some people may tolerate cooked fruits better than raw ones.
5. Keep a food diary: This can help you identify patterns and determine which fruits work best for you.

Beyond Fruit: Other Dietary Considerations for GERD

While incorporating low-acid fruits can be beneficial, managing GERD often requires a comprehensive dietary approach. What other dietary factors should be considered?

• Avoid trigger foods: Common triggers include spicy foods, fatty foods, chocolate, and caffeine.
• Eat smaller, more frequent meals: This can help reduce pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter.
• Stay upright after eating: Wait at least three hours after eating before lying down.
• Limit alcohol and carbonated beverages: These can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase acid reflux.
• Consider probiotics: Some studies suggest that probiotics may help reduce GERD symptoms.

The Role of Lifestyle Changes in Managing GERD

While diet plays a crucial role in managing GERD, lifestyle factors are equally important. What lifestyle changes can help reduce acid reflux symptoms?

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put pressure on the stomach, increasing the risk of acid reflux.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to increased reflux.
• Elevate the head of your bed: This can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus during sleep.
• Manage stress: Stress can exacerbate GERD symptoms in some people.
• Wear loose-fitting clothing: Tight clothing can put pressure on the stomach and increase the risk of reflux.

By combining dietary changes, including the incorporation of low-acid fruits, with these lifestyle modifications, many people with GERD can significantly reduce their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

When to Seek Medical Advice for GERD

While dietary and lifestyle changes can be effective for managing GERD, it’s important to know when to seek medical advice. When should you consult a healthcare professional about your acid reflux symptoms?

• If symptoms persist despite dietary and lifestyle changes
• If you experience frequent heartburn (more than twice a week)
• If you have difficulty swallowing or experience pain when swallowing
• If you experience unexplained weight loss
• If you develop a persistent cough or hoarseness

A healthcare professional can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include medications or other interventions in addition to dietary modifications.

In conclusion, incorporating low-acid fruits into your diet can be an effective strategy for managing GERD symptoms. By choosing fruits like bananas, melons, apples, pears, coconuts, papayas, and certain berries, you can enjoy the nutritional benefits of fruit while minimizing the risk of triggering acid reflux. Remember, everyone’s tolerance is different, so it’s important to pay attention to your body’s responses and work with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive GERD management plan that works for you.

Hermina Hospitals | Five fruits you can eat to reduce gastric acid

• Posted On:  22 August 2022
• Posted By:  Hermina Padang
• 3 min read
• Reviewed By:  Prof.Dr.dr.Nasrul Zubir,Sp.PD, KGEH

Five fruits you can eat to reduce gastric acid

Hello, Hermina’s friends. Have you ever experienced stomach acid? Of course, stomach acid pain really makes Hermina’s friend uncomfortable during activities when experiencing stomach acid.

Surely Hermina’s friend is wondering if there are fruits that can prevent stomach acid. Of course, there is Hermina’s friend. Let’s read the article below to find out what fruits can prevent stomach acid.

Patients with gastric acid reflux disease, or GERD, need to be careful when eating fruit. Because there are a number of fruits that are high in acid and have the potential to make stomach acid recur. So, what are the fruits for stomach acid that are safe to eat?

From bananas to coconuts, here are a variety of fruits that are great for acid reflux.

1. Banana

Bananas are one of the delicious fruits for stomach acid.

banana, a yellow fruit that tastes delicious.

Bananas for stomach acid are considered safe because they have alkaline (alkaline) properties.

In addition, this fruit is also considered to help balance the acid in the stomach so that symptoms of acid reflux or GERD can be prevented.

2. Melon

Just like bananas, the benefits of melon for stomach acid come from its alkaline nature.

According to reports from Johns Hopkins Medicine, this sweet-tasting fruit is believed to relieve stomach acid and prevent irritation due to gastric acid reflux.

There are various types of melons that are safe for people with stomach acid reflux to consume, including honeydew melon, cantaloupe (cantaloupe), and watermelon (watermelon).

3. Apple

Apples for stomach acid are believed to be safe because they contain alkaline minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are claimed to relieve stomach acid reflux symptoms.

4. Pears

Because it does not contain as much acid as citrus fruits and tomatoes, you can eat pears for stomach acid.

Thanks to this low acid content, pears are considered not to trigger the recurrence of stomach acid reflux symptoms.

5. Coconut

Coconut can be a safe choice for people with stomach acid because it is considered one of the fruits with the lowest acid content.

What’s more, this fruit that contains a lot of water is believed to improve brain function, potentially prevent heart disease, and reduce the risk of stroke.

Stomach acid is a taboo fruit that needs to be avoided.

There are a number of stomach acid taboos that need to be avoided.

1. Orange
2. Lime
3. Grapefruit
4. Lemon
5. Pineapple
6. Tomatoes.

Furthermore, there are a number of fruit juices for people with stomach acid that should not be consumed first, such as tomato juice and orange juice, because they are considered to cause stomach acid to rise.

Processed tomatoes in the form of sauce or foods with tomato sauce, such as pizza and lasagna, should also be avoided because they have the potential to cause stomach acid to rise.

Some people with GERD also find it difficult to tolerate garlic and onions, as well as foods processed with these ingredients.

Hermina’s friend, after reading the article above, knows that there are fruits that can prevent stomach acid. With us, we have done prevention against gastric acid disease. We can avoid chronic gastric acid disease.

7 Low-Acid Foods to Add to Your Reflux Diet

Highly acidic foods can lead to heartburn in some people. If a low-acid diet is part of your GERD relief strategy, here’s where to start.

Medically Reviewed

Regular heartburn sufferers know the importance of avoiding the foods that trigger their reflux. Certain foods that are high in saturated fat, for example, can loosen the pressure of the sphincter muscle, located at the top of the stomach. If it’s not tightly “shut,” it allows food and stomach acid to backwash into the esophagus and throat, causing heartburn.

While keeping acids in their place is one way of avoiding heartburn, another school of thought encourages avoiding highly acidic foods, too, as a way of stopping the acid before it’s even in the stomach.

Quick chemistry lesson: Water’s pH is 7, which is neutral. Anything lower is acidic, and anything higher is basic (or alkaline). Dropping by 1 on the pH scale means the acidity is 10 times higher, so even small decreases in pH can mean big increases in acidity.

A normal stomach pH is between 1 and 4. It’s already acidic. “The stomach’s pH is low because it secretes gastric acid, which plays a large role in food breakdown,” explains Michelle Duong Davenport, MA, an adjunct instructor at New York University and a researcher at the NYU School of Medicine.

Some History on Low-Acid Foods

Experts currently discourage reflux sufferers from eating certain foods and beverages known to cause heartburn, such as chocolate, peppermint, caffeine, and alcohol. Doing so can help prevent heartburn in some people, but everyone is different.

One study even makes a case for following a diet centered on low-acid foods.

The small study, published in the Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology,included 20 people who continued to suffer from reflux symptoms despite standard treatment with a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) and an h3-blocker. But after consuming only foods and beverages with a pH of 5 or greater for at least 2 weeks, 19 of those 20 participants saw improvement.

More research is needed, but the idea of a low-acid diet is intriguing. Additionally, eating low-acid foods may bring about other health benefits, ranging from decreased erosion of tooth enamel to a lower risk of bone fractures — a potential side effect of taking PPIs for heartburn.

So if your doctor suggests you try a low-acid lifestyle, here’s where to start. Read up on the low-acid diet staples that may bring GERD relief, along with some other health perks.

Bananas

“Bananas are generally considered to be alkaline in nature and not acidic,” says Patrick Takahashi, MD, a gastroenterologist at St. Vincent Medical Center in Los Angeles. “They are a good source of fiber and vitamin B6, and help with maintaining potassium, which is good for your heart and bones in general.” Raw bananas are probably the best source of nutrients. You can eat them at any time, for a snack or with a meal. In some low-acid baking recipes, you can mash them up as a substitute for a fat component.

Skinless Chicken

Skinless chicken makes a great low-acid diet staple. High in protein, a 4-ounce portion provides two-thirds of the recommended daily amount. While chicken is perfectly fine, deep-frying it in greasy oil will only trigger heartburn. Prepare it mindfully, with as few reflux-triggering spices as possible.

Apples

Another low-acid option, apples make a great source of fiber, too. “Fiber can help you stay full longer, which can minimize overeating during the day,” says Tara Harwood, MS, RD, a dietitian at the Cleveland Clinic’s Digestive Disease Institute. “Fiber also helps with lowering cholesterol and preventing spikes in blood sugar.” Even the skins, which have polyphenols and flavonoids, can be good for you.

Fish

Fish is a nutritious component in any diet but an excellent source of protein in a low-acid diet. 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. And remember to skip the lemon. Its low pH makes it acidic.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great breakfast option for people sticking to a low-acid diet. High in filling fiber, oats can help improve cardiovascular health and stabilize blood sugar, among other benefits. When topping off a hot bowl of oatmeal with fruit, remember to avoid ones high in acid, like strawberries, blueberries, and cranberries.

Almonds

Unlike other nuts such as pecans, cashews, and walnuts, almonds are generally alkaline. The monounsaturated fatty acids and omega-3 fatty acids almonds contain can protect the heart and the high fiber content can keep you feeling full between meals. Almonds also contain Vitamin E, a natural antioxidant, and the minerals manganese and magnesium. Use almonds in place of other nuts when preparing low-acid recipes.

Whole-Grain Brown Rice

Brown rice is a healthy choice whether or not you’re following a low-acid diet. It’s high in fiber, which can help regulate the digestive tract, plus it’s heart-healthy and chock-full of B vitamins, which can help keep the body full of energy.

10 alkaline foods to eat every day

pH levels are divided into two groups of seven, and the neutral pH level is 7, i. e. values ​​below 7 are acidic and above 7 are alkaline.

If the body is alkalized, it is in optimal condition, and all functions are performed properly, the body is full of energy.

Alkalinizing the body actually speeds up metabolism, lowers blood pressure, detoxifies the system by lowering blood cholesterol, and burns extra weight. It also helps prevent cardiovascular disease and cancer.

In addition, you should stop drinking acidic drinks and foods such as coffee, meat, eggs, beans, flour, carbonated drinks, canned food, refined sugar, fried foods, alcoholic beverages, and dairy products.

You should eat other foods that are much healthier and more nutritious and will alkalize your body.

Garlic.

Garlic effectively neutralizes the acidity of fish, meat and other acidic foods. Thus, you should use it regularly in cooking, and in this way you will effectively alkalize your body.

Almonds.

Although most nuts are acidic, almonds are an exception. Moreover, almond milk improves brain function, aids digestion, and lowers blood cholesterol levels. Almond strengthens health and gives energy for the whole day.

Avocado.

Avocado has a pH of 8.0, so it effectively neutralizes acidic foods in the intestines and alkalizes the body. In addition, we recommend including avocados in your daily diet, because in addition to being healthy, it is also delicious. Add avocados to salads, or use with salt and pepper.

Watermelon.

Watermelon is a product with an extremely high content of vitamins and minerals. In addition, they have a pH of 9.0 and are rich in water and fiber, which cleanses the entire body.

Papaya.

High in vitamins, fibre, minerals and water, these fruits effectively cleanse the body and help digestion.

Fresh lemons.

One of the best habits is to drink a glass of lemon juice or lemon water as soon as you wake up. Thus, you will alkalize the body, help digestion, and prevent various diseases and infections.

Asparagus.

At pH 8.5, asparagus is a powerful antioxidant. It is rich in water, fiber, minerals and vitamins.

Broccoli.

Broccoli will provide plenty of vitamins and minerals as well as fiber, so it will aid digestion, strengthen the immune system, and prevent cancer.

Ripe bananas.

Ripe bananas are alkaline and are especially good for the body. But unripe bananas are acidic and can lead to bloating, constipation, and poor absorption of nutrients.

Cayenne pepper.

At pH 8. 5, cayenne pepper cleanses the body, lowers blood pressure, improves circulation, and enhances brain function. In addition, it has powerful antibacterial properties, strengthens the immune system and prevents infections.

0077

News came

Health July 31, 2016

Repost

Scientists study the effects of food on the acid-base balance of the body by analyzing the mineral composition of foods. If the mineral composition is highly alkaline, then the product is more likely to have an alkaline effect, and vice versa.

In other words, the reaction of the body to certain microelements determines which foods are alkalizing and which are oxidizing. Lemons, for example, are acidic on their own, but have an alkaline effect during digestion. Similarly, milk has an alkaline effect outside the body, but an acidic effect when digested.

The composition of the soil used to grow fruits and vegetables has a significant impact on their mineral values. As a result, the content of certain substances may vary, and different tables may reflect different pH levels (acidity-alkalinity) of the same products.

The main thing in nutrition is to exclude processed foods from the diet, replacing them with fresh ones, and give preference to fruits and vegetables.

List of alkaline and oxidizing fruits, vegetables and other foods

Alkaline foods

Very alkaline:

baking soda, chlorella, dulse, lemons, lentils, linden, lotus root, mineral water, nectarine, onion, persimmon, pineapple, pumpkin seeds, raspberries, sea salt, sea and other algae, spirulina, sweet potato, tangerine, umeboshi plum, root taro, vegetable juices, watermelon.

Moderately alkaline foods:

apricots, arugula, asparagus, tea bunches, beans (fresh greens), broccoli, cantaloupe, carob, carrots, apples, cashews, chestnuts, citrus fruits, dandelion, dandelion tea, blackberries, endive, garlic, ginger (fresh), ginseng tea, kohlrabi, kenyan pepper, grapefruit, pepper, herbal tea, kombucha, passion fruit, kelp, kiwi, olives, parsley, mango, parsnips, peas, raspberries, soy sauce, mustard, spices, sweet corn, turnips.

Slightly alkaline products:

sour apples, pears, apple cider vinegar, almonds, avocados, bell peppers, blackberries, brown rice vinegar, cabbage, cauliflower, cherries, eggplant, ginseng, green tea, herbal teas, sesame seeds, honey, leeks, nutritional yeast, papaya , radish, mushrooms, peach, marinades, potatoes, pumpkin, rice syrup, swede.

Low alkali products:

alfalfa sprouts, avocado oil, beets, brussels sprouts, blueberries, celery, cilantro, banana, coconut oil, cucumber, currants, fermented vegetables, linseed oil, baked milk, ginger tea, coffee, grapes, hemp oil, lettuce, oats, olive oil, quinoa, raisins, zucchini, strawberries, sunflower seeds, tahini, turnips, umeboshi vinegar, wild rice.

Oxidizing products

Very slightly oxidizing products:

goat cheese, amaranth, brown rice, coconut, curry, dried fruits, beans, figs, grape seed oil, honey, coffee, maple syrup, pine nuts, rhubarb, sheep cheese, rapeseed oil, spinach, beans, zucchini.