Short Answer: Coleslaw is bad for acid reflux. Because it has mayonnaise and vinegar, which are both acidic and can trigger heartburn.
Acid reflux is a condition that affects your esophagus, the tube that connects your mouth and stomach.
In acid reflux, your stomach acid flows back up into your esophagus, causing a burning sensation known as heartburn.
This can lead to various health problems, such as inflammation, ulcers, and cancer of the esophagus.
One of the key factors in managing acid reflux is diet.
What you consume can affect your stomach acid production, which can impact your acid reflux symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage acid reflux, you should consume alkaline-rich foods like vegetables, fruits, and lean meats, and avoid acidic foods like tomatoes, citrus fruits, chocolate, and coffee.
Now, coleslaw is a salad made of shredded cabbage and carrots, mixed with mayonnaise, vinegar, sugar, and seasonings.
People usually eat it as a side dish or a topping for sandwiches and burgers.
Coleslaw is bad for acid reflux because it contains mayonnaise and vinegar, which are both acidic and can trigger heartburn.
Mayonnaise is high in fat, which can slow down digestion and increase stomach pressure.
Vinegar is a fermented product that can lower the pH of your stomach and irritate your esophagus.
One cup of coleslaw can give you 19 grams of fat (29% of your daily needs), 10 grams of sugar (20% of your daily needs), and 2 grams of fiber (8% of your daily needs).
Fat can worsen acid reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus.
Sugar can worsen acid reflux by feeding the bacteria in your stomach, which can produce gas and increase stomach pressure.
Fiber can help acid reflux by improving digestion and bowel movements, but too much fiber can cause bloating and gas, which can also increase stomach pressure.
Furthermore, coleslaw is a cold food and cold foods are bad for acid reflux.
Because, they can reduce the blood flow to your stomach and impair digestion.
That’s why I suggest you limit your coleslaw intake to avoid acid reflux.
Stick to half a cup or less per day to minimize the risk of heartburn.
You can also try making your own coleslaw with low-fat or fat-free mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, and herbs to reduce the acidity and fat content.
Also, you shouldn’t eat coleslaw if you have ulcers or gastritis to prevent bleeding and inflammation.
Because, the acidity and roughage of coleslaw can damage the lining of your stomach and esophagus.
You can buy fresh cabbage and carrots in your local market or can order them online.
Always choose organic and crisp vegetables, because they have more nutrients and less pesticides.
You can store them in a plastic bag in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Finally, remember, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management and essential medical care is key to managing acid reflux effectively.
I always recommend my acid reflux patients to follow an acid reflux-friendly diet to improve their overall well-being, and enjoy a longer and healthier life.