Everyone loves the occasional sweet treat, and there's not much better than an ice cream on a hot day or a slice of chocolate cake after a good meal. However, for those with acid reflux or GERD, finding a sweet snack that doesn't trigger their heartburn can be a challenging task.
Many foods are acidic, and snack foods are no exception. Some are also acid-forming, making them even more likely to trigger a heartburn attack. But does that mean those with acid reflux can never treat themselves to a dessert or chocolate bar?
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Which Sweets Can You Eat with Acid Reflux?
Sweet treats safe for those on a low-acid diet include honey, jams, angel food cake, non-fat or low-sugar yogurt, ice cream or sorbet, and low-fat cookies.
However, all these should be eaten in moderation, as sugar is a known heartburn trigger. Other triggers include cocoa beans, caffeine, and artificial sweeteners.
What Sweets Are Safe for Those with Acid Reflux?
Sweets that are low in sugar and fat should be safe for most people on a low-acid diet. Examples include:
- honey, jam, or syrup
- angel food cake
- non-fat or low-sugar yogurt, ice cream, or sorbet
- low-fat cookies
These are all less likely than acid-forming foods to trigger acid reflux and GERD symptoms. However, they still contain sugar, a common symptom trigger, so eat them sparingly. Moreover, some carbohydrates are harder to digest, triggering the production of gastric acid.
What Sweets Should Those with Acid Reflux Avoid?
Sweets containing a lot of sugar, fat, and artificial flavoring can worsen acid reflux symptoms. Examples include:
- sweets and desserts with chocolate (and chocolate flavoring)
- high-fat pastries
- chewing gum
- nuts
- hard candy
Artificial sweeteners and additives may cause indigestion, inflaming your stomach lining and triggering acid reflux.
However, everyone's symptom triggers are different, and some may be able to tolerate more of the above than others.
Which Natural Sweets Won't Worsen
Acid Reflux?
Fruit is a more nutritious, healthier sweet treat than candies or cakes.
Some of the best fruits for acid reflux sufferers include:
- watermelon
- cantaloupe
- bananas
- dates and figs
- papaya
- berries
These aren't too high in sugar but are rich in fiber, which soaks up excess gastric acid and keeps you feeling full longer after eating.
Can You Eat Cake When Suffering from Acid Reflux?
Cakes are often high in fat and sugar, making them likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms.
Although many sweet treats are acidic, acid-forming, or both, not all are, and those with acid reflux or GERD should be able to enjoy some occasionally. To avoid triggering your symptoms, it's best to bake cakes at home and customize the ingredients, use less sugar, and reduce fat content.
Don't know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level