GERD-Friendly Lentil Zucchini Soup: Nourish Your Gut, Fuel Your Recovery

As summer winds down and seasonal vegetables like zucchini reach their peak, it’s the perfect time to prepare a nourishing soup to enjoy now or reheat during the cooler fall and winter months. More than just hearty and satisfying, this zucchini-based soup is also gentle on digestion and packed with health benefits.

Many people may not realize that GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) can develop not only from lifestyle factors but also as a side effect during or after cancer treatment. Chemotherapy, radiation to the chest or abdomen, certain medications, and even stress can all contribute to reflux symptoms. Because of this, the recipe was created with the intention to be soothing to the gut, easy to digest, and supportive of long-term health for anyone managing reflux, whether from cancer care or other causes.

The Power of Zucchini: A Gentle Veggie with Big Benefits

Zucchini, a versatile summer squash, is not only a seasonal favorite but also gentle and easy to digest. Naturally low in acid, it is unlikely to trigger reflux symptoms, making it an excellent choice for those managing GERD. Its high water content and fiber support healthy digestion and regularity, which is important for overall gut comfort.

In addition to being soothing for digestion, zucchini contains antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are part of the carotenoid family. These antioxidants help protect cells from damage and may reduce inflammation, a factor associated with chronic diseases, including cancer. With its mild flavor and soft texture when cooked, zucchini is especially well suited for sensitive appetites or those recovering from treatment.

Lentils: Plant-Based Protein with Protective Potential

The second key ingredient in this soup is the small but mighty pulse, lentils. Don’t let their size fool you; lentils pack a powerful nutritional punch. One cup of cooked lentils provides approximately 15 grams of fiber, which accounts for nearly half of the daily recommended intake, along with around 18 grams of plant-based protein. Unlike some protein sources, lentils are gentle on the digestive system and do not contribute to excess stomach acid, making them ideal for managing GERD.

The fiber in lentils supports healthy digestion and may also help regulate cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Lentils are rich in polyphenols, plant compounds known for their anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer benefits. They also provide important nutrients, such as iron, folate, and magnesium, which are especially valuable for those recovering from illness or undergoing treatment.

Bone Broth: Gut-Healing and Immune-Supportive

Bone broth is gentle and easy to digest, making it an excellent choice for those with GERD or sensitive digestive systems. It contains amino acids like glutamine and glycine, which help support and repair the gut lining, especially important after treatments that may impact digestion. Rich in collagen, electrolytes, and hydration, bone broth offers nourishing comfort during times of low appetite, fatigue, or healing.

This is why bone broth was used in place of regular broth in the soup: it adds an extra protein source without chunks of meat that might be off-putting to some. The warmth and simplicity of bone broth can also help soothe inflammation and provide a calming, restorative boost when the body needs it most.

Conclusion

Whether you are managing GERD from everyday causes or coping with reflux as a side effect of cancer treatment, this soup was designed with your comfort and health in mind. Each ingredient was carefully selected to support digestion, reduce inflammation, and provide nourishment that is both gentle and powerful. It’s a comforting way to care for your body and nourish your journey toward healing and long-term wellness.

[[ recipeID=recipe-2mddef6gt, title=GERD-Friendly Lentil Zucchini Soup ]]

1. _{Lutein. University of Rochester Medical Center. (n.d.). https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content?contenttypeid=19&contentid=Lutein} 

2. _{Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research. (2025, April 23). Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gerd/symptoms-causes/syc-20361940} 

3. _{McDonnell, K. (2025, January 23). Here are 6 reasons to drink bone broth. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bone-broth#benefits} 

4. _{U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2019, April 1). Lentils, mature seeds, cooked, boiled, without salt. USDA FoodData Central. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/food-details/172421/nutrients}