19 Foods Which Alleviate and Prevent Acid Reflux (GERD)

Photo of Daisy Whitbread Written by Daisy Whitbread
BSc (Hons) MSc DipION
Photo of Dr. Nicolette Natale Medically Reviewed by
Dr. Nicolette Natale
Evidence Based. References sourced from PubMed.
19 Foods Which Alleviate and Prevent Acid Reflux (GERD)

Looking for a diet to help with acid reflux and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)? According to this study, the foods you eat can have a positive impact on acid reflux. (1)

It is a good idea to experiment with different foods to see which ones trigger your own reflux. For more see the article on foods to avoid for acid reflux (GERD).

In addition to eating these foods, avoiding spicy, fatty, and salty foods can help. Caffeine and alcohol consumption should also be minimized.

Why do you want to use food to control acid reflux?

Use of antacids and PPIs (Like Zantac etc..) lowers stomach acid. Low stomach acid can allow bacteria to grow in your stomach (bacterial overgrowth), disrupting the balance of protective mucous in the digestive system. (2) PPI’s can be helpful in the short term, but can put you at increased risk of gastrointestinal infections down the road. (3) This is why it is not recommended to take PPIs for an extended duration of time. H2 blockers such as famotidine, can be a better choice to help control acid reflux symptoms with a lower side effect profile. (4)

Further, using foods to control your reflux can prevent pain and damage to your body while preserving enough stomach acid to prevent bacterial growth.

Below are 19 foods to alleviate acid reflux naturally.

List of Foods to Alleviate Acid Reflux

1 Ginger
Ginger
Ginger is a demulcent herb, traditionally used as a natural remedy for indigestion and heartburn. Demulcents are thought to work by forming a physical barrier against stomach acid, as well as reducing inflammation. (5,6,7) Try adding ginger to various dishes (such as steamed fish) and try ginger tea before or after meals to see if it helps ease your symptoms.
2 Herbs (Except for pepper, citrus, garlic, and mustard)
Parsley Leaves
Herbs are a healthy way to add flavor to your food without needing to use excessive amounts of oil, salt, or sugar. They are also a concentrated source of many nutrients. Try a variety of fresh herbs in your diet and see how it affects your acid reflux. Chamomile, sage, and peppermint are particularly good. (8)
3 Chamomile Tea (No black or green tea)
Chamomile Tea
Since black and green teas are caffeinated and generally considered foods to avoid for acid reflux, you can try Chamomile tea as a substitute. Chamomile tea has soothing properties, which may help to lower stress levels which can further alleviate reflux. (9,10)
4 Chewing Gum
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum immediately after a meal, and for up to one hour afterward, is associated with acid reflux relief. (11) When buying chewing gum, look for brands with no artificial ingredients or sweeteners.
5 Vegetables (No Onions, Tomatoes, or Peppers)
Mushrooms
Raw or cooked, vegetables are generally good for an acid reflux diet, with at least one study showing that eating vegetables lowers the risk of GERD by 33%. (12) Be sure to avoid onions, tomatoes, or peppers. Recommended vegetables include all root vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, turnips, and carrots. Other great vegetables include mushrooms, fennel, and celery.
6 Tofu
A block of tofu
Tofu is a healthy, low-fat, vegetarian source of protein. Protein from vegetables vs animals is correlated with reduced acid reflux. (13) It is often served fried or deep-fried though, which is not great for reflux so look out for steamed or sauteed tofu recipes.
7 Milk Substitutes
A glass of soy milk
Cow's milk can trigger reflux in certain populations, (14) so trying alternatives such as soy milk can be helpful.
8 Natural Licorice
Natural Licorice
Licorice is used as an ailment for digestive diseases and may be effective in alleviating symptoms of GERD. (15) Be sure to consume only natural licorice avoiding most major candies which often use anise seed to mimic the taste of licorice. Licorice supplements may also be a good choice, however, it is best to discuss adding this supplement to your routine with your doctor first. Licorice can have some dangerous side effects, especially if you are pregnant or at risk of high blood pressure. (16)
9 Mastic Gum
Chewing Gum
Mastic gum is a natural herbal supplement from the mastic tree in Greece. Sometimes consumed and chewed as a gum, added to food, or taken as a supplement Mastic gum holds promise as a natural way to alleviate acid reflux. In this study participants taking mastic gum supplements reported a 79% decline in gastrointestinal discomfort. (17)
10 Beans
Kidney Beans
Beans are a heart-healthy food, and are also a good source of fiber. Try including beans in your acid reflux diet to see how they help.
11 Soups
A blow of soup
Homemade soups, especially with whole wheat noodles and the approved vegetables above can make a great meal to prevent reflux. Soup also has the advantage of aiding in weight loss, which is likely to help with acid reflux.
12 Plain Popcorn (Unbuttered, Unsalted)
Popcorn
Popcorn is made from a whole grain, and can make a great snack. Be sure to only eat plain popcorn with nothing added.
13 Lean Meats (Fish and Chicken)
Fish Fillet
While protein from plants is better for GERD, lean animal proteins like chicken and fish can also be acceptable to some people. When preparing meat for a GERD diet, be sure to boil, saute, or steam it. Avoid deep-frying and pan-frying.
14 Honey and Agave
A spoon of honey
Honey, especially Manuka Honey, is reported by some people to be helpful for reflux. Manuka honey contains enzymes that can aid digestion. Natural sweeteners like honey can make a great addition to oatmeal in an acid-reflux diet. (18,19)
15 Whole Grains (Especially Oatmeal)
A bowl of oatmeal with blueberries
Whole grains like whole wheat bread (especially rye), brown rice, and oatmeal can help ease reflux. Whole grains are rich in fiber, which helps to absorb acidic contents in the stomach reducing symptoms of acid reflux. (20) Oatmeal is even thought to absorb stomach acid, and acid from other foods. Please note, that this does not include granola, due to its high oil and sugar content. Also, if you consume oatmeal with milk, be sure to use skim, or preferably soy milk.
16 Eggs
Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein and are correlated with reduced risk of acid reflux for some people. (20)
17 Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar
There are mixed opinions on the benefits of incorporating apple cider vinegar (ACV) into your diet. The theory behind this treatment is that low stomach acid causes acid reflux, so adding in an acidic food like ACV should signal your brain to tighten the lower esophagus sphincter valve. Though some people claim that ACV has reduced their acid reflux symptoms, no scientific data supports this. ACV has been shown to increase weight loss in some studies, so this may assist in reducing reflux symptoms. (21) Proceed with caution because consuming any kind of vinegar can damage the digestive tract and tooth enamel. All vinegar is highly caustic and should only be consumed when diluted with water.
18 Bananas
Bananas
Known for being high in potassium, bananas also have a low pH (acidity) and are typically recommended for an acid reflux diet. A diet higher in fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of acid reflux. (12)
19 Melon
Cantaloupe Melon
Honeydew, cantaloupe, and watermelon can be helpful for acid reflux. (12) It is, however, easy to overeat melon. Overeating can trigger reflux, so watch your portion sizes.
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Other Factors Affecting Gastrointestinal Reflux Disease (GERD)

  • Overweight and Obesity - Being overweight or obese is strongly associated with GERD, possibly due to the stomach having less space. (22,23) Check your BMI to set a health weight target. Also, consume more high fiber low-calorie foods to help with weight loss (and acid-reflux).
  • Smoking - Smoking relaxes the reduces lower oesophageal sphincter (LOS) pressure, and is correlated with a higher incidence of acid reflux and GERD. (24,25)
  • Avoid Excessive Exercise - High-intensity exercise over a long period of time can cause GERD. Changes in blood flow to the stomach and possibly even hormone secretion are responsible. (26) Avoid eating before exercise. Moderate or exercise in short bursts is fine. (27)
  • High Fiber Diet - Foods high in fiber help foods move through your body, reducing the incidence of acid reflux. (28) Avoid high-fiber foods that are high in acid like oranges. (29)
  • Practice Good Eating Habits - Eating very hot foods, skipping breakfast, eating too fast, eating a midnight snack, and overeating are all associated with increased incidence of acid reflux. (30) Instead focus on eating slowly, eating moderate portion sizes, and avoid eating 3 hours before laying down or bedtime.

What Foods Make Acid Reflux Worse?

Foods that can trigger acid reflux include fatty fried foods, chocolate, coffee, tea, sodas, onions, and more. See the article on foods to avoid for acid reflux for more information.

Data Sources and References

  1. Lee YC, Lee JS, Kim SW, Kwon KH, Eun YG. Low-acid diet for recalcitrant laryngopharyngeal reflux: therapeutic benefits and their implications JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2013 Dec;139(12):1291-5. doi: 10.1001/jamaoto.2013.5556. 24201320
  2. Shindo K, Machida M, Fukumura M, Koide K, Yamazaki R. Suppression of gastric acid secretion in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease results in gastric bacterial overgrowth and deconjugation of bile acids Gut. 1998 Feb;42(2):266-71. doi: 10.1136/gut.42.2.266. 9536953
  3. Rohde AM, Gastmeier P. Proton Pump Inhibitor Use Is Associated With Extended-Spectrum ?-Lactamase-Producing Enterobacteriaceae Rectal Carriage at Hospital Admission: A Cross-Sectional Study Clin Infect Dis. 2017 May 15;64(10):1464-1465. doi: 10.1093/cid/cix109. 28329192
  4. Bardhan KD. Safety profile of long-term H2-antagonist therapy Yale J Biol Med. 1996 May-Jun;69(3):211-24. 9165690
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  6. Baliga MS, Haniadka R, Pereira MM, D'Souza JJ, Pallaty PL, Bhat HP, Popuri S. A review of the gastroprotective effects of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 2011 Jul;51(6):499-523. doi: 10.1080/10408391003698669. 21929329
  7. Ghayur MN, Gilani AH. Pharmacological basis for the medicinal use of ginger in gastrointestinal disorders Int J Food Sci Nutr. 2006 Feb-Mar;57(1-2):65-73. doi: 10.1080/09637480600656074. 16849115
  8. MedlinePlus - Indigestion Also called: Dyspepsia, Upset stomach
  9. Tai Y, Hou X, Liu C, Sun J, Guo C, Su L, Jiang W, Ling C, Wang C, Wang H, Pan G, Si X, Yuan Y. Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with bright future BMC Genomics. 2020 Feb 18;21(1):169. doi: 10.1186/s12864-020-6579-z. 32070270
  10. Amsterdam JD, Shults J, Soeller I, Mao JJ, Rockwell K, Newberg AB. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of oral Matricaria recutita (chamomile) extract therapy for generalized anxiety disorder Altern Ther Health Med. 2012 Sep-Oct;18(5):44-9. 22894890
  11. Pehl C, Pfeiffer A, Waizenhoefer A, Wendl B, Schepp W. Walking and chewing reduce postprandial acid reflux Aliment Pharmacol Ther. 2001 Feb;15(2):233-9. doi: 10.1046/j.1365-2036.2001.00919.x. 11148443
  12. Tabibian SR, Hajhashemy Z, Shaabani P, Saneei P, Keshteli AH, Esmaillzadeh A, Adibi P. The relationship between fruit and vegetable intake with gastroesophageal reflux disease in Iranian adults Neurogastroenterol Motil. 2021 Sep;33(9):e14129. doi: 10.1111/nmo.14129. Epub 2021 Apr 2. 33797127
  13. de Bortoli N, Nacci A, Savarino E, Martinucci I, Bellini M, Fattori B, Ceccarelli L, Costa F, Mumolo MG, Ricchiuti A, Savarino V, Berrettini S, Marchi S. Vegetal and Animal Food Proteins Have a Different Impact in the First Postprandial Hour of Impedance-pH Analysis in Patients with Heartburn World J Gastroenterol. 2012 Aug 28;18(32):4363-70. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i32.4363. 22969200
  14. Salvatore S, Agosti M, Baldassarre ME, D'Auria E, Pensabene L, Nosetti L, Vandenplas Y. Cow's milk challenge increases weakly acidic reflux in children with cow's milk allergy and gastroesophageal reflux disease Nutrients. 2021 Jan 21;13(2):297. doi: 10.3390/nu13020297. 33494153
  15. Pastorino G, Cornara L, Soares S, Rodrigues F, Oliveira MBPP. Review - Glycyrrhiza glabra L. (Liquorice) Phytother Res. 2018 Dec;32(12):2323-2339. doi: 10.1002/ptr.6178. Epub 2018 Aug 17. 30117204
  16. Isbrucker RA, Burdock GA. Toxicological Effects of Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice): A Review Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2006 Dec;46(3):167-92. doi: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2006.06.002. Epub 2006 Aug 1. 16884839
  17. Pachi VK, Mikropoulou EV, Gkiouvetidis P, Siafakas K, Argyropoulou A, Angelis A, Mitakou S, Halabalaki M. Is Chios mastic gum effective in the treatment of functional dyspepsia? A prospective randomised double-blind placebo controlled trial J Ethnopharmacol. 2020 May 23;254:112485. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.112485. Epub 2020 Feb 22. 32092498
  18. Singh P, Singh N, Sengupta S, Palit G. Honey--a nutrient with medicinal property in reflux Indian J Med Res. 2013 Dec;138(6):1021. 24672833
  19. Dubtsova EA. Honey, Propolis, and Royal Jelly: A Comprehensive Review of Their Biological Actions and Health Benefits Eksp Klin Gastroenterol. 2009;(3):36-41. 19928000
  20. El-Serag HB, Satia JA, Rabeneck L. Dietary intake and risk for reflux esophagitis: a case-control study Gut. 2005 Jan;54(1):11-7. doi: 10.1136/gut.2004.040337. 15591498
  21. Morimoto-Kobayashi Y, Ohara K, Ashigai H, Kanaya T, Koizumi K, Manabe F, Kaneko Y, Taniguchi Y, Katayama M, Kowatari Y, Kondo S. Vinegar intake reduces body weight, body fat mass, and serum triglyceride levels in obese Japanese subjects Nutr J. 2016 Mar 9;15:25. doi: 10.1186/s12937-016-0144-2. 26960416
  22. Friedenberg FK, Xanthopoulos M, Foster GD, Richter JE. Gastroesophageal reflux disease and obesity Am J Gastroenterol. 2008 Aug;103(8):2111-22. doi: 10.1111/j.1572-0241.2008.01946.x. 18796104
  23. Kostikas K, Papaioannou AI, Gourgoulianis KI. Body-mass index and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux in women N Engl J Med. 2006 Aug 24;355(8):848; author reply 849-50. doi: 10.1056/NEJMc061773. 16929003
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  26. Azzam RS. Gastroesophageal reflux disease and physical activity Arq Gastroenterol. 2018 Nov;55Suppl 1(Suppl 1):85-91. doi: 10.1590/S0004-2803.201800000-48. Epub 2018 Oct 4. 30304291
  27. Morozov S, Isakov V, Konovalova M. Influence of exercise testing in gastroesophageal reflux in patients with gastroesophageal reflux disease World J Gastroenterol. 2018 Jun 7;24(21):2291-2299. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v24.i21.2291. 29881238
  28. Semeniuk J, Kaczmarski M, U?cinowicz M. Fiber-enriched diet helps to control symptoms and improves esophageal motility in patients with non-erosive gastroesophageal reflux disease Adv Med Sci. 2008;53(2):283-92. doi: 10.2478/v10039-008-0034-8. 18842562
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