John Myers
Diet plays a major role in acid reflux disease. Small meals, little fat, and sugar don’t eat too late – this protects the stomach and esophagus from heartburn.
The most important requirement for heartburn: it is better to eat four to five small meals instead of two or three large ones. So the stomach is not overloaded. Those affected should not eat anything about four hours before going to bed so that most of the food has already passed through the stomach before lying down.
Sweet and too greasy foods often lead to symptoms – unfavorable are, for example, chocolate, salads with mayonnaise, or greasy meat. Many types of cabbage, onions, and garlic are also rather irritating and must be consumed with caution. On the other hand, protein, for example from dairy products, white meat, or (depending on individual tolerance) nuts, is calming for the stomach. High-fiber foods such as vegetables and whole-grain products – but not too coarse ones – also help digestion.
Eat a little sweet and sour
Harmful amounts of sugar are often found in finished products such as fruit yogurt, pudding, and ice cream. White flour products such as cakes or light bread rolls can also aggravate reflux symptoms. Cravings for baked goods and sweets can be driven away with bitter drops: drizzle on the back of your hand, sniff – your appetite is gone.
Caution is also required with acidic foods, they have an irritating effect on the sensitive mucous membrane. This applies to sour fruit as well as, for example, coffee and soda or carbonated soft drinks. The situation is similar with hot flavors – chili or raw onions, for example, are not recommended for reflux.
Linseed infusion relieves heartburn
A linseed infusion often helps to protect the esophagus and gastric mucosa. Put 1 tablespoon (approx. 10 g) of light flaxseed (golden flaxseed) in a tea bag in a mug, pour 150 ml of boiling water over it and let it swell for 20 minutes. Squeeze out the tea bags with a teaspoon and then remove. Drink the slightly nutty-tasting infusion in small sips throughout the day. Freshly ground flaxseed is the most effective for many people. The application should extend over four to six weeks.
Acid protection soup “KüKaLeiWa”
This brew is drunk throughout the day. It protects the lining of the esophagus. You need:
- 2 tsp cumin seeds
- 2 medium-sized potatoes, cut into rough chunks
- 2 teaspoons of flaxseed
- 2 liters of water
Place everything together in a large saucepan and cook for 20 minutes, then strain, catching the liquid. Keep this brew – you get about one and a half liters – in a cool place and drink it warm within two days at intervals of a few hours (warm up about 150 ml each time). It is best to start with one portion 20 to 30 minutes before breakfast. The application can last four to six weeks the first time and can be repeated at short notice if necessary.
Tip: chamomile roll cure
The medicinal plant chamomile also soothes the mucous membrane. For a so-called roll cure, pour around 1 tablespoon of loose chamomile blossoms with 250 ml of boiling water in the morning and let them steep for 10 minutes. Then drink the tea on an empty stomach and then lay it on your back, on both sides, and on your stomach for 5 minutes each. Do this procedure for at least eight days, preferably every morning for two weeks.
