In this article, you will learn what foods to eat with hiatal hernia and how to treat it naturally. However, before we get into the natural treatment of hiatal hernia, let’s take a closer look at the symptoms and causes of this condition. This type of hernia occurs when the upper part of the stomach passes to the thoracic cavity through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragm. This anatomical disorder impedes the function of the sphincter or valve between the esophagus and the stomach in keeping stomach contents from returning to the esophagus.
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The most common symptom of hiatal hernia is reflux of gastric content, which is usually highly acidic, into the esophagus. This acid attacks the esophagus and produces the typical burning sensation known as pyrosis. Hiatal hernia recipes and diet treatments will consist primarily of avoiding:
- Foods that further relax the esophageal sphincter.
- Foods that stimulate the production of acid in the stomach.
Proper posture that avoids pressure on the upper portion of the abdomen and abstaining from tobacco helps migrate the progress of the hiatal hernia and the accompanying stomach inflammation.
Foods to Eat With Hiatal Hernia
POTATO: Potatoes are among the best foods to eat with hiatal hernia because they neutralize the excess acid and reduce production. This stops esophageal reflux. This, of course, assumes that they have been prepared healthfully and without fats. The greatest antacid effect is gained from raw potato juice.
CARROT: Because of their provitamin A content, carrots improve the function of the gastric mucosa by normalizing the production of acid juices. This helps avoid the reflux of acid into the esophagus.
SEAWEED: Seaweed is rich in gums or mucilage, which can retain liquids. Because of this, they retain stomach acids, keeping them from refluxing toward the esophagus.
POMEGRANATE: This is a powerhouse for foods to eat with hiatal hernia because of pomegranates’ astringent effect; they dry the gastric mucosa, reduce the production of gastric juices, and reduce inflammation in the stomach. Pomegranate juice reduces stomach acid and esophageal reflux.
Foods to Avoid With Hiatal Hernia
ALCOHOL: Alcohol increases acid production and weakens the esophageal sphincter, separating the esophagus from the stomach. Any alcoholic beverage, wine, in particular, aggravates the symptoms of hiatal hernia.
WINE: It has been demonstrated that wine, even in small amounts, fosters the reflux of stomach acid toward the esophagus, which produces a burning sensation and aggravates the symptoms of hiatal hernia.
COFFEE: Coffee relaxes the sphincter that separates the esophagus and the stomach. Coffee consumption increases the burning sensation associated with hiatal hernia and worsens the condition. Decaffeinated coffee also increases acidity, although to a lesser degree than regular coffee, according to a study at Bogenhausen Hospital of Munich (Germany).
SPICES: This is one of the main foods to avoid with hiatal hernia because it stimulates the production of acids in the stomach and a certain inflammation of the esophageal and gastric mucosa. They should be avoided in cases of this condition.
CHOCOLATE: One tip to fix a hiatal hernia naturally is to avoid the foods on this list and reduce or eliminate chocolate. Because of chocolate’s content of sugars, fats, and stimulants, it encourages acid production in the stomach and esophageal reflux, thus aggravating the symptoms of hiatal hernia.
TOTAL FAT: This is another of the essential foods to avoid with hiatal hernia. Any fat promotes acid reflux from the stomach into the esophagus and aggravates the symptoms of hiatal hernia. Fat intake must be minimal to avoid reflux and the accompanying burning sensation.
MILK: Although milk momentarily relieves the burning and acid sensations, it tends to produce a “rebound” effect of even greater acid secretion. Milk, particularly whole milk, should be used with care or eliminated.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a hiatal hernia, and can it be treated naturally?
When the diaphragm opens, some stomach tissue pushes through a hiatal hernia (muscle separating your chest from the abdomen) results. While some cases require medical intervention, mild hiatal hernias can often be managed, and symptoms can be improved through lifestyle changes and natural remedies.
What are the common symptoms of a hiatal hernia?
Heartburn, acid reflux, chest pain, difficulty swallowing, regurgitation, and belching are common symptoms.
What are the most important dietary changes for managing a hiatal hernia?
Focus on:
1. Eating smaller, more frequent meals reduces pressure on your stomach.
2. Avoiding trigger foods: Acidic foods, fatty foods, spicy foods, caffeine, chocolate, alcohol, and carbonated drinks.
3. Choosing alkaline foods: Leafy greens, vegetables, and fruits can help neutralize stomach acid.
4. Incorporating probiotics: Yogurt, kefir, and fermented foods promote gut health and may reduce reflux.
What lifestyle changes can help manage a hiatal hernia?
Try:
1. Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight puts pressure on your abdomen and worsens symptoms.
2. Elevating your head while sleeping: Use wedges or blocks to raise your upper body 6-8 inches.
3. Avoid tight clothing: Loose clothing reduces pressure on your abdomen.
4. Managing stress: Stress can exacerbate symptoms. Try relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation.
5. Quitting smoking: Smoking weakens the diaphragm muscle and worsens reflux.
What natural remedies can help with hiatal hernia symptoms?
Some options include:
1. Slippery elm: This herb coats and soothes the esophagus.
2. Ginger: As a bonus, ginger may alleviate nausea and indigestion because of its anti-inflammatory characteristics.
3. Aloe vera: To calm inflamed tissues and alleviate pain, use aloe vera gel.
4. Apple cider vinegar: An acid-balancing stomach may be possible with diluted apple cider vinegar. Before you give this a go, talk to your doctor.
5. Chamomile tea: Chamomile has calming properties and may reduce heartburn.
When should I see a doctor?
Seek medical attention if:
1. Symptoms are severe or worsen despite lifestyle changes.
2. You experience difficulty swallowing or bleeding.
3. You have chest pain unrelated to heartburn.
4. Your symptoms interfere with daily life.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. You should not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, you should talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Foods and Their Healing Power. Trans. Annette Melgosa. Vol. 2. Chai Wan: Editorial Safeliz, 2005. 188.[Foods to eat with hiatal hernia]
- National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK562200/
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiatal-hernia/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20373385
- Cleveland Clinic: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/podcasts/love-your-heart/hiatal-hernia-from-diagnosis-to-treatment
- Harvard Health Publishing: https://www.health.harvard.edu/pain/hiatal-hernia-a-to-z
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/video/video-hiatal-hernia-overview
- American College of Gastroenterology: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/hiatal-hernia-diet-tips
- Healthline: https://www.pristyncare.com/blog/natural-remedies-to-cure-hiatal-hernia-pc0135/
- Dr. Axe: https://draxe.com/health/hiatal-hernia/
- Pristyn Care: https://www.pristyncare.com/blog/natural-remedies-to-cure-hiatal-hernia-pc0135/
Last update on 2024-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API