IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) and acid reflux are gastrointestinal diseases that cause discomfort in your stomach and abdomen. Acid reflux generally causes heartburn and regurgitation while IBS generally causes diarrhea or constipation. Both can lead to stomachaches. Because they both occur in the digestive system, the foods you eat can either cause or relieve the symptoms of IBS and acid reflux.
Mild Pasta
Tomatoes can irritate your IBS and acid reflux, but that does not mean you need to stay away from pasta. Boil and drain the whole grain noodles of your choice. Fiber is a useful ingredient that can keep your bowels clean and regulate your IBS and reflux, so stick with the whole grain noodles. Chop a variety of your favorite vegetables. You can use anything available and in season. Avoid broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower, if you have gas, and onions and garlic, if you have heartburn. Pour a few tablespoons of olive or grape seed oil in a pan and sauté your vegetables. Mix with the noodles. Roast or grill some chicken to add to your vegetable pasta dish.
Savory Soup
During moments of intense symptoms of IBS and acid reflux, you may need something nutritious and simple to settle your stomach. If you are feeling nauseated, it’s important to keep eating healthy foods and stay hydrated, without upsetting your stomach with intense flavors. Create a broth-based soup with fibrous and protein-filled ingredients that will nourish you. Heat a chicken or vegetable broth. Cook some kale or other bright, fibrous greens in the broth. Add some chunks of tofu or shredded chicken if your stomach is ready for it. Salt and season to taste with thyme, oregano and other mild favorites. You can serve this over a bed of rice or whole grain noodles.
Fruit Salad
Depending on the ingredients and your symptoms, a fruit salad can be a great dessert to finish a meal or to snack on between meals. Those suffering from IBS and acid reflux should avoid too many fatty acids and trans fats, found in many popular processed, dairy and baked desserts. If you can substitute a fat-filled dessert with a fruit salad, you can increase your fiber and decrease the gas, bloating and sour feelings. If you are feeling nauseated or have an upset stomach, avoid citrus-based or acidic fruits. If you are suffering from diarrhea, you can use bananas to help bind you. Avoid bananas if you are constipated. Chop apples, pears, berries, cherries and other favorites. Throw in a dash of powdered or grated ginger to settle your stomach. Munch on this fibrous alternative to dessert whenever you crave sugary treats.
Photo Credit
- potato image by Yury Shirokov from Fotolia.com
