1. How does acid reflux occur?

Stomach acid plays a crucial role in the digestion process. Thanks to stomach acid, food is broken down and digested, becoming nutrients for the body.

The mucous lining of the stomach is specially regulated to protect it from strong acid, but the esophagus is not similarly protected.

The lower esophageal sphincter acts as a valve that allows food into the stomach but prevents it from flowing back into the esophagus. When this valve malfunctions, the contents of the stomach can reflux into the esophagus, causing irritation.

Symptoms of acid reflux include a burning sensation in the esophagus when the acid rises and causes heartburn.

2. Improper eating habits increase the risk of acid reflux

Risk factors for acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) include obesity, lack of physical activity, smoking (active or passive), pregnancy, the use of certain medications for asthma, histamine blockers, pain relievers, tranquilizers...

Furthermore, improper dietary and lifestyle choices also have a significant impact on GERD.

According to Dr. Nguyen Duc Minh, a nutrition expert, choosing unhealthy foods like those high in fat, spicy foods, excessive caffeine, alcohol, carbonated beverages, or consuming high-acid foods such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, can increase the risk of acid reflux.

Therefore, if you frequently experience acid reflux symptoms such as heartburn or indigestion, it's advisable to limit or avoid the mentioned foods and consider selecting foods that can help reduce reflux symptoms.

3. Some foods to eat when experiencing acid reflux
3.1. Whole Grains
Whole grains are among the best foods for acid reflux because they are not only beneficial for overall health but also contain a high amount of fiber that can help reduce acid reflux symptoms.

When you increase fiber in your diet, the digestion process and stomach emptying occur more quickly. Consuming plenty of fiber can also help keep the lower esophageal sphincter closed and may aid in moving food more rapidly to alleviate pressure and bloating in your stomach.

Good sources of whole grains for individuals with acid reflux include oats, brown rice, whole wheat bread, and cornmeal.

There are also many suitable vegetables for those with acid reflux, such as carrots, butternut squash, broccoli, cauliflower, curly kale, cucumbers, sweet potatoes, and regular potatoes.

3.2. Low-Acid Fruits
When dealing with acid reflux, you should avoid citrus fruits and fruit juices as they often contain high levels of acid. However, there are some fruits with low acid content that are beneficial for reducing inflammation in those with the condition, including melons, bananas, avocados, blueberries, and papayas.

3.3. Beneficial Fats
Consuming high-fat foods can trigger symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), but it's primarily fats that are high in saturated or trans fats, such as fried foods, fast food, red meat, and processed baked goods.

There are some beneficial fats that may have the opposite effect and help you manage acid reflux, such as olive oil, flaxseed oil, sunflower oil, various nuts, and fatty fish like salmon.

3.4. Ginger
Ginger aids digestion by stimulating saliva and enzymes in the stomach. It helps expel excess gas and soothes the intestines.

A simple way to alleviate acid reflux symptoms is to boil a few slices of ginger, strain the water, let it cool, and drink it little by little.

Ginger helps alleviate acid reflux symptoms

3.5. Alkaline Ionized Water

Good hydration is not only a means of quenching thirst but also a daily health protection solution.

According to Dr. Otto Heinrich Warburg (Nobel laureate in medicine in 1931): The root cause of cancer is the lack of oxygen, which is produced when the environment in the human body is acidic. Cancer cells are anaerobic and cannot survive in an alkaline environment.

A person can maintain good health and optimal enzyme function when the blood pH level is slightly alkaline, around 7.3-7.4.

Therefore, drinking the right kind of water is crucial, and i-on Life, the first alkaline ionized water brand in Vietnam with a naturally high pH of 8.5-9.5 (without chemicals), helps neutralize excess acidity in the body. It provides excellent support for digestive health.

Produced using advanced electrolysis technology from Japan, Mui Ne i-on has a structure of ultra-fine water molecules (much smaller than regular drinking water). This allows the water to be rapidly absorbed into every cell, promoting metabolism and efficient toxin removal from the body.

Mui Ne i-on water is sourced from a pristine underground water aquifer, ensuring a rich natural mineral content with a TDS of about 180 mg/liter, which contributes to overall flexibility and immune system strength.

Moreover, it's a water rich in active Hydrogen, which inhibits free radicals - a major cause of disease. Drinking enough water daily also plays a part in preventing chronic diseases such as gout, kidney issues, and even cancer.

3.6. Green Tea

All traditional teas are beneficial for health, but green tea is the most potent due to its high content of polyphenolic compounds, catechins, gallocatechin, and EGCG. These compounds have a role in inhibiting tumor invasion. The potent antioxidant EGCG is the most effective compound related to the modulation of various signaling pathways, ultimately leading to the downregulation of proteins associated with cancer cell invasion.

For good health, in addition to a balanced diet, regular physical exercise, don't forget to drink at least 2-3 liters of water every day to keep your body healthy.