Which fruits can help alleviate stomach acid. How do alkaline foods impact acid reflux. What are the best low-acid fruits for GERD sufferers. Which fruits should be avoided with gastric acid issues. How can dietary choices affect acid reflux symptoms.

Understanding Gastric Acid and Its Impact on Health

Gastric acid, while essential for digestion, can cause discomfort and health issues when it refluxes into the esophagus. This condition, known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), affects millions worldwide. Managing GERD often involves dietary modifications, including the consumption of alkaline foods that may help neutralize stomach acid.

The pH scale, which ranges from 0 to 14, measures the acidity or alkalinity of substances. A pH below 7 is acidic, while above 7 is alkaline. The stomach typically maintains a pH between 1 and 4, which is highly acidic to aid in food breakdown. However, for those suffering from acid reflux, consuming alkaline foods may help alleviate symptoms.

The Role of Alkaline Fruits in Reducing Gastric Acid

Alkaline fruits can play a significant role in managing acid reflux symptoms. These fruits have a higher pH level and are believed to help neutralize stomach acid. Additionally, they often contain beneficial compounds that may soothe the digestive system and provide relief from GERD symptoms.

How do alkaline fruits help with acid reflux?

Alkaline fruits can help in several ways:

• Neutralizing stomach acid
• Providing fiber to aid digestion
• Offering anti-inflammatory properties
• Promoting overall digestive health

Top 7 Alkaline Fruits for Reducing Gastric Acid

Let’s explore seven fruits that are known for their alkaline properties and potential benefits for those suffering from acid reflux:

1. Bananas: Nature’s Antacid

Bananas are often touted as a natural remedy for acid reflux. Why are bananas beneficial for stomach acid issues? Bananas have an approximate pH of 5.6, making them mildly acidic but still considered alkaline-forming in the body. They contain potassium, which is an alkaline mineral that can help neutralize stomach acid. Additionally, bananas are rich in pectin, a soluble fiber that helps keep food moving through the digestive tract, potentially reducing acid reflux symptoms.

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 alkaline-forming. The high water content can help dilute stomach acid, while the natural sugars provide quick energy without triggering reflux symptoms. Melons are also low in fiber, making them easy to digest.

3. Apples: An Alkaline Powerhouse

Apples, with a pH ranging from 3.3 to 4.0, might seem acidic, but they are considered alkaline-forming once metabolized. They contain calcium, magnesium, and potassium, all of which are alkaline minerals that can help neutralize stomach acid. Apples also contain pectin, which can help soothe the digestive system and reduce reflux symptoms.

4. Pears: Gentle on the Stomach

Pears are another excellent fruit for those with acid reflux. With a pH of around 3.5 to 4.6, pears are mildly acidic but become alkaline when metabolized. They are low in acid compared to many other fruits and are easy on the digestive system. Pears are also rich in fiber, which can help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation, a potential trigger for acid reflux.

5. Coconut: A Tropical Treat for Digestive Health

Coconut is one of the least acidic fruits, making it an excellent choice for those with GERD. Fresh coconut has a pH of 6.1 to 7.0, while coconut water has a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Coconut is rich in healthy fats and fiber, which can help soothe the digestive system and promote overall gut health. It’s also a good source of potassium, an alkaline mineral that can help balance the body’s pH levels.

6. Papaya: Enzymatic Relief

Papaya, with a pH of 5.5 to 6.0, is another alkaline-forming fruit that can be beneficial for those with acid reflux. It contains an enzyme called papain, which aids in digestion by breaking down proteins. This can help reduce the workload on the stomach and potentially decrease acid production. Papaya is also rich in fiber and water content, promoting healthy digestion.

7. Kiwi: A Tangy Yet Beneficial Option

Despite its tangy taste, kiwi is actually alkaline-forming when metabolized. With a pH of around 3.1 to 3.4, kiwi might seem too acidic, but it’s the net effect on the body that matters. Kiwis are rich in fiber and contain an enzyme called actinidin, which can aid in protein digestion. They’re also high in vitamin C and potassium, both of which can contribute to overall digestive health.

Fruits to Avoid with Gastric Acid Issues

While many fruits can be beneficial for those with acid reflux, some fruits may exacerbate symptoms due to their high acid content. Here’s a list of fruits that individuals with GERD should approach with caution:

1. Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits)
2. Tomatoes
3. Pineapples
4. Cranberries
5. Strawberries

These fruits have a high acid content that can trigger or worsen acid reflux symptoms in some individuals. However, it’s important to note that everyone’s tolerance is different, and some people may be able to consume these fruits in moderation without issues.

Incorporating Alkaline Fruits into Your Diet

Adding alkaline fruits to your diet can be a delicious and effective way to manage acid reflux symptoms. Here are some tips for incorporating these fruits into your daily meals:

• Start your day with a banana smoothie
• Add melon slices to your breakfast or as a mid-morning snack
• Enjoy an apple or pear as an afternoon pick-me-up
• Use coconut water as a base for smoothies or drink it on its own
• Include papaya in fruit salads or as a dessert
• Snack on kiwi slices for a tangy, nutritious treat

Remember, while these fruits can be beneficial, it’s important to listen to your body and pay attention to how different foods affect your symptoms. Everyone’s digestive system is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another.

Beyond Fruits: Other Dietary Considerations for GERD

While focusing on alkaline fruits can be helpful, managing GERD often requires a comprehensive approach to diet. Here are some additional dietary tips that may help reduce acid reflux symptoms:

Foods to Include:

• Vegetables: Most vegetables are alkaline-forming and can be beneficial. Leafy greens, broccoli, cauliflower, and asparagus are excellent choices.
• Whole grains: Oatmeal, brown rice, and whole wheat bread can provide fiber and help absorb excess stomach acid.
• Lean proteins: Chicken, turkey, fish, and egg whites are low in fat and less likely to trigger reflux.
• Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, and nuts in moderation can be part of a GERD-friendly diet.

Foods to Limit or Avoid:

• High-fat foods: Fried foods, fatty meats, and full-fat dairy can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to reflux.
• Spicy foods: These can irritate the esophagus and worsen symptoms.
• Caffeine and alcohol: Both can increase acid production and relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
• Chocolate: Unfortunately, chocolate can trigger reflux in some individuals.
• Mint: While often thought of as soothing, mint can actually relax the lower esophageal sphincter and worsen reflux.

Lifestyle Changes to Complement Your Diet

In addition to dietary changes, certain lifestyle modifications can significantly impact GERD symptoms. Consider incorporating these habits:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals to avoid overloading your stomach
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating; wait at least three hours
• Elevate the head of your bed by 6-8 inches to prevent nighttime reflux
• Wear loose-fitting clothing to reduce pressure on your abdomen
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques, as stress can exacerbate GERD symptoms
• Maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight can put pressure on the stomach and increase reflux
• Quit smoking, as nicotine can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter

When to Seek Medical Advice

While dietary changes and lifestyle modifications can be effective in managing GERD symptoms, it’s important to know when to seek medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional if:

• Your symptoms persist despite dietary and lifestyle changes
• You experience difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
• You have unexplained weight loss
• You experience persistent chest pain, especially if it’s accompanied by shortness of breath or jaw or arm pain
• You have persistent hoarseness or wheezing
• You vomit blood or have black, tarry stools

A healthcare provider can perform tests to diagnose GERD and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include medications or, in severe cases, surgical interventions.

The Future of GERD Management: Emerging Research and Trends

As our understanding of GERD continues to evolve, researchers are exploring new avenues for managing this condition. Some emerging areas of interest include:

Microbiome and GERD

Recent studies have begun to investigate the role of the gut microbiome in GERD. Some research suggests that imbalances in gut bacteria may contribute to reflux symptoms. Probiotics and prebiotics are being studied for their potential to support a healthy gut microbiome and potentially alleviate GERD symptoms.

Personalized Nutrition

As we learn more about individual variations in digestion and metabolism, there’s growing interest in personalized nutrition approaches for GERD management. This could involve tailoring dietary recommendations based on an individual’s specific triggers, genetic factors, and gut microbiome composition.

Alternative Therapies

Complementary and alternative therapies are gaining attention in GERD management. These include:

• Acupuncture: Some studies suggest that acupuncture may help reduce GERD symptoms
• Herbal remedies: Certain herbs, such as licorice root and chamomile, are being studied for their potential to soothe the digestive system
• Mindfulness and stress reduction techniques: Given the link between stress and GERD symptoms, mindfulness practices are being explored as potential complementary treatments

Technological Advancements

New technologies are also being developed to aid in GERD management:

• Wearable devices that monitor pH levels and provide real-time feedback
• Apps that help track symptoms, diet, and lifestyle factors to identify patterns and triggers
• Advanced diagnostic tools for more accurate GERD diagnosis and monitoring

While these areas show promise, it’s important to note that more research is needed to fully understand their effectiveness and safety. Always consult with a healthcare provider before trying new treatments or making significant changes to your GERD management plan.

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.

11 unusual ways to use bananas

Life

January 29

Skin care, gardening, cleaning – and that’s not all of their areas of application.

1. Make a face mask

A good alternative to store-bought products that moisturizes and softens the skin. Mash a ripe banana to make a paste and apply a thin layer on the face and neck. Hold the mask for 10-20 minutes and then rinse with cool water. For even more hydration, mix a banana with a quarter cup of unsweetened yogurt and two tablespoons of honey.

2. Polish silverware and leather shoes

Sounds like a joke, but banana skin really does help bring back the shine to silver and leather. Remove excess fibers from the inside of the peel and rub it on the surface of dishes or shoes. Then dry with a paper towel or soft cloth. The hack can also be used to bring back the shine of leather furniture.

3. Tenderize the meat

Simply add a ripe banana peel to the pan with this product and cook as usual. The enzymes contained in it will help break down the proteins in the meat and soften it during frying. The taste of the dish will not change.

4. Refresh indoor plants

If the leaves of house flowers are dull and dusty, do not rush to spray them with water: this will only smear dirt on them. Instead, rub each leaf with the inside of a banana peel and they will shine.

5. Drive away aphids in the garden

Bury dried banana peels 2 to 5 centimeters deep around the plant that the aphids have attacked and the pests will soon disappear. It is better not to use the whole peel and pulp: rodents and other animals can find them a tasty treat and dig them up.

6. Feed your crops

Bananas and their husks are high in potassium, an important nutrient that is good for you and your garden. Feeding can be done in two ways. First: dry the peel, grind in a blender and add to the ground when planting – just pour a pinch into the hole before lowering the plant into it. The second way is to puree fresh skins with water and use as a liquid fertilizer.

7. Soothe skin from burns and scratches

Banana peel has anti-inflammatory properties, which means it will be useful if you are bitten by an insect or if you are scratched, stinged with nettles or sunburned. Place the skin on the affected area and press lightly. Hold until you feel relief, changing the compress from time to time.

8. Speed ​​up the ripening of fruits and vegetables

Ripe bananas produce ethylene gas, which induces ripening. Therefore, if you need a vegetable to ripen faster, put it in a paper bag along with a banana.

9. Brighten your teeth

After brushing your teeth, rub them for a couple of minutes with a banana peel. It contains citric acid, which gently whitens the enamel.

10. Remove the splinter

Apply a banana skin to the affected area for half an hour with its inner surface. The enzymes contained in it will destroy the bonds between the proteins of the upper layer of the skin (which is why the substances are used in facial exfoliating products), after which even deeply stuck splinters will be removed without problems.

11. Relieve Heartburn

Bananas are alkaline, and the alkali neutralizes stomach acid. If you suffer from heartburn, be sure to add these fruits to your daily diet. For example, eat a banana after breakfast to protect your stomach lining throughout the day.

Read also 🧐

• How to use citrus peel
• 8 ways to use ground coffee after brewing
• 20 unusual ways to use olive oil

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 eating 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 sour foods. Thus, you should use it regularly in cooking, and in this way you will effectively alkalize your body.

Almond.

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.