Got heartburn? Gut doctor reveals a surprising remedy that works every time – and it’s not medication

Acid reflux can lead to intense discomfort, and it can be difficult to find a quick fix. 

However, as traditional medications have been shown to lead to worrying side effects, doctors are recommending foods as treatments. 

Dr Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist and acid reflux expert, took to TikTok to share his trick for beating a pain that affects 60 million Americans. 

The problem happens when undigested food and stomach juices rises up towards the throat, resulting in a sore, burning feeling.

‘The other day, I had really bad acid reflux, and this was a miracle food, he shared in the video, which has received more than 740,000 views since November. 

‘I was actually amazed at how quick it worked.’ 

Dr Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist and acid reflux expert, shared on TikTok that he turned to food after trying several different medications for heartburn

Acid reflux affects 60 million Americans and can be caused by eating high-acid foods like coffee, tomatoes, and alcohol

Dr Salhab said that after eating a spicy meal, he had ‘probably the worst’ heartburn he had had in a while and was struggling to find relief.

However, after taking several different over-the-counter medications, the discomfort persisted. He then turned to food. 

‘I took a banana, and I ate it, and within 30 seconds, my heartburn was completely gone and never came back,’ he said. 

‘It shows you that food can also be part of the treatment plan for acid reflux and heartburn.’

Heartburn causes a burning pain in the chest, just below your breastbone, that usually is caused by eating, lying down, or bending over. 

Dr Salhab revealed that eating a banana relieved his heartburn in less than 30 seconds. This is because bananas are low in acid and high in alkaline, which soothes the stomach

Also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), this happens when stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the esophagus, which connects your mouth and stomach.  

According to the Mayo Clinic, signs of acid reflux include heartburn, regurgitating food or sour liquid, abdominal or chest pain, trouble swallowing, or feeling like there’s a lump in your throat. 

If you experience acid reflux at night, you may have an ongoing cough or worsening asthma. 

Foods that are highly acidic, such as coffee, tomatoes, alcohol, and spicy or fatty dishes can increase stomach acid and worsen heartburn and acid reflux. 

However, bananas are low in acid and high in alkaline, which can soothe irritated lining in the esophagus. 

Dr Salhab also pointed to foods like almonds, broccoli, and kale as low-acid picks.