Achalasia Cardia causes food and drinks to remain in the esophagus and not move into the stomach. Symptoms may include difficulty in swallowing, regurgitation, heartburn, chest pain, weight loss, and coughing. An altered diet can help in this condition.
What foods are to be included if you have Achalasia Cardia?
1. Include foods rich in protein like chicken, fish, and soy, and eat more high-fiber food.
2. Take a softer and pureed diet like soups, porridge, and mashed vegetables as this will help in swallowing food better without any discomfort.
3. Dairy products like yogurt or milk work very well in easing symptoms of the digestive system.
4. Ginger plays an excellent role in helping digestion in our body and preventing heartburn.
5. Fluids like broth, stew, and vegetables blended well or juices can be consumed.
6. Drink at least 10 to 12 glasses of water daily to stay hydrated
7. Peppermint as an ingredient in teas and yogurt dips is known to help reduce gastric acid secretion and soothe the body.
8. Fruit smoothies.
9. Protein shakes and smoothies are helpful when appetite or intake is low.
10. Sip a small number of liquids with meals to ease swallowing.
11. Eat applesauce-consistency fruits and squeeze pouches for snacks or you can stir them into yogurt.
12. Add sauces and gravies to moisten the food.
Take small bites, chew food thoroughly, and limit stressful distractions at mealtimes.
Do not go to bed immediately after a meal. Wait at least three hours after eating before laying down to prevent regurgitation and heartburn.
There are different ways to eat a healthy diet with achalasia-
Ways to increase vegetable intake-
- Vegetable-based soups will contain small pieces of tender cooked vegetables
- Frozen vegetables can be easily cooked or steamed until fork tender.
- Backed sweet potato or squash with butter can be mashed with a fork as a side dish.
- Great vegetables such as zucchini or carrots into scrambled eggs, sauces, and pasta.
- Add vegetables to smoothies, along with protein sauces and fruits.
Ways to Increase Fruit Intake-
- Peel and bake fruit (i.e., baked apples with cinnamon, berry crisp) for dessert.
- Fruits smoothies.
- Include a canned fruit cup at the meal.
For more information, you can visit WebMD and MedicineNet.
