Yes there are a couple alternatives, for example one is called Reflux Gourmet and is more accessible in countries like the US.

I, too, have high BP and am concerned about high sodium content (also the price to ship it from the UK). I just found your blog today, now, and I’m wondering if there is an alternative to the UK Gaviscon. You mentioned in 2020 you were looking into something else. Have you published anything on this and where might I find it. Thanks.

Hi Mary — yes, this can absolutely happen, even after 10–15 years of being stable. LPR can “switch back on” fast if something irritates the throat or weakens the reflux barrier.

The most likely triggers in your case are **coffee** (very common), but also **kombucha** (big one). Kombucha is acidic, carbonated, and fermented — it’s basically a perfect reflux trigger even if it’s “healthy.” If you’ve been drinking it regularly, it can slowly build irritation without you realising.

The ear pressure/fluid feeling, ringing, cough, sore throat and headache are all very typical of an LPR flare because the inflammation can affect the Eustachian tubes and sinuses.

That said, I have to be blunt: at 69, with sudden severe headache + ear symptoms, don’t assume it’s “just reflux” if it keeps happening. If headaches are intense, unusual, or worsening, you should get checked to rule out infection/sinus/ear issues or anything more serious.

In the meantime, I’d do this immediately:

* **stop kombucha and coffee completely**
* keep meals bland/low acid for 1–2 weeks
* don’t eat 3–4 hours before bed
* consider **Gaviscon Advance after meals + before bed**
* sleep slightly elevated if possible

If it settles quickly after removing kombucha/coffee, that’s your answer. If it doesn’t, it’s worth seeing ENT or your doctor soon.

Roasted cashews are usually OK in small amounts, but they can trigger reflux for some people because they’re high fat.

That makes sense — cold foods can temporarily numb the throat and give quick relief.

Just be aware though: yogurt ice cream can still trigger reflux in some people because it’s dairy + sugar (and sometimes additives), which can increase mucus and worsen LPR over time even if it feels soothing in the moment.

If it consistently helps you and doesn’t worsen symptoms later, it’s probably fine as an occasional comfort food.

Yes — **melon, watermelon, and papaya are generally some of the safest fruits for LPR**. They’re low-acid and usually don’t trigger that throat burn.

**Bananas** are also usually reflux-friendly (especially ripe ones). They’re one of the best “safe” fruits for most people.

**Apples are mixed.** Some people tolerate them fine, but others find they trigger symptoms because they’re more acidic (especially green apples). If you want to try apples, go for sweeter varieties and have them with food rather than on an empty stomach.