Short Answer: Hummus is good for acid reflux. Because it has fiber, protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants and they can improve digestion, repair tissue, lower inflammation, and protect cells.
Acid reflux is a condition that affects your esophagus, the tube that connects your mouth and stomach.
In acid reflux, your body allows some of the acid content of the stomach to flow back into the esophagus.
This can irritate the lining of your esophagus and cause heartburn, regurgitation, pain and other symptoms.
One of the key factors in managing acid reflux is diet.
What you consume can affect your lower esophageal sphincter, which can impact your acid reflux symptoms and overall health.
To effectively manage acid reflux, you should consume fiber-rich foods like oatmeal, whole grains and fruits and avoid fat-rich foods like fried foods, cheese and chocolate.
Now, hummus is a Middle Eastern dip, spread, or savory dish made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
People usually eat hummus as a dip, with pita bread or fresh vegetables.
Hummus is good for acid reflux because it contains fiber, protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants.
Fiber can help prevent constipation and promote regular bowel movements, which can reduce the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter.
Protein can help repair the damaged tissue in the esophagus and support muscle function.
Healthy fats can lower inflammation and improve cholesterol levels.
Antioxidants can protect the cells from oxidative stress and prevent further damage.
One serving of hummus (about 1/4 cup) can give you 6 grams of fiber (24% of your daily needs), 8 grams of protein (16% of your daily needs), 15 grams of fat (23% of your daily needs), and 177 calories4
Fiber can positively affect acid reflux by improving digestion and preventing constipation.
Protein can positively affect acid reflux by repairing the tissue and supporting the muscle function.
Healthy fats can positively affect acid reflux by lowering inflammation and improving cholesterol levels.
Antioxidants can positively affect acid reflux by protecting the cells from oxidative stress and preventing further damage.
Furthermore, hummus is a plant-based food and plant-based foods are good for acid reflux.
Because, they are alkaline and can neutralize the acidity in the stomach and esophagus.
You can eat 1 to 2 servings of hummus per day safely.
More than that can cause bloating, gas, or diarrhea due to the high fiber content.
Also, you shouldn’t eat hummus if you have a sesame allergy to prevent an allergic reaction.
Because, hummus contains tahini, which is made from sesame seeds.
You can buy fresh hummus in your local market or can order it from online.
Always choose hummus that is made with natural ingredients and has no preservatives or additives.
Because, they are healthier and tastier.
You can store hummus in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week or in the freezer for up to a month.
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.