What Is Good To Eat If You Have Heartburn?
Heartburn has become one of the most common ailments that have affected millions of people around the world. The main causes are due to common digestive ailments.
In fact, researchers estimate that about 20 percent of people in the United States, in North America it is is 18.1–27.8%, in Europe it is 8.8–25.9%, in East Asia, it is 2.5–7.8%, in the Middle East it is 8.7–33.1%, in Australia, it is 11.6% and 23.0% in South America.
This occurs when part of the acid that resides in the stomach passes through the cardia – the upper opening of the stomach that communicates with the esophagus – and passes into the esophagus, irritating the area as it passes.
The most common causes are some digestive diseases, such as hiatal hernia; central obesity, which is when the accumulation of fat occurs at the level of the abdomen.
Besides this excessive alcohol and tobacco use, stress, pregnancy, exercising right after eating, and meals cause too.
Foods such as citrus fruits, chocolate, onion, mint, or flavored spicy ingredients are also responsible. The foods that are too fatty, like highly seasoned dishes, and fried foods, also cause stomach acidity.
As we have just seen, the most common manifestation is that burning sensation in the stomach. However, this is usually accompanied by other effects such as regurgitation, which is when the remains of food return to the mouth; or gastric fullness, which occurs when we feel very full.
These symptoms usually appear after eating or during the night and can worsen if the individual lies down or bent over for a long time. The intensity of these signals is closely linked to the number of foods we have eaten.
Flatulence or gas, nausea, a bitter or acid in the mouth, and slower digestion are also some of the signs of heartburn. Despite being a very common condition and with little risk.
It is true that we must closely monitor the symptoms to know when we should consult a doctor to know if it is another disease or disorder.
The doctors advise seeking help right away “if you experience severe pain or pressure in your chest, especially in combination with other signs and symptoms such as arm or jaw pain, or shortness of breath. The pain in the chest can be a sign of a heart attack.
How to keep heartburn at bay?
There is a large number of digestive ailments which are responsible for heartburn. So prevention often goes a long way in preventing symptoms from occurring.
In this case, experts do emphasize quitting smoking, not eating excessively, having dinner two or three hours before going to bed, and avoiding too intense physical exercise -although experts recommend walking a little after meals.
losing weight if you suffer from obesity, avoid stress, nervousness, or anxiety, as well as the consumption of those medications that aggravate heartburn.
Of course, eliminate the food from the diet that each patient/person has identified as precursors of the problem, among which are usually coffee, alcohol, soft drinks, or spicy.
Foods to eat when heartburn is bad
1. Oatmeal
This cereal is so popular today because it includes in its composition a plant substance known as mucilage, capable of softening the digestive mucosa, which makes it a 100% natural antacid.
This type of fiber can also lower cholesterol, prevent constipation, protect mucous membranes or promote the development of microbial flora in the intestine thanks to its prebiotic effects.
2. Fresh ginger
Since time immemorial, humans have used ginger to calm heartburn, since it is an alkaline plant that naturally neutralizes the acids in our body.
This power also helps alleviate other stomach health-related problems like bloating, nausea, or general discomfort. We can include it in our diet grated, as an infusion, or in capsules, available in natural or herbal products stores.
3. Banana
As is well known, this fruit is rich in potassium, an alkalizing mineral that helps reduce acidity due to its high pH. In addition, it has a chemical substance that is responsible for the lining of the stomach, thus protecting it from excess acid that causes this condition.
4. Apple
In this case, the responsibility falls on pectin, a natural fiber found in plant cell walls and is often used to neutralize heartburn.
In fact, many consider it the most effective natural antacid on the market. On the other hand, this fruit regulates the activity of the intestine, favors the elimination of fluids and toxins from the body, and helps control cholesterol levels.
5. Almonds
Contrary to popular belief, some nuts can also be linked to the cause. Unlike walnuts or chestnuts, almonds are a highly alkaline fruit, a quality that, as we already know, counteracts excess acidity in the stomach. Experts recommend eating four almonds after each meal to aid digestion and prevent reflux.
