Foods That Can Cause Heartburn

Heartburn affects many grassroots. It is best described as a painful, burning sensation that occurs in the lower chest area. Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, a condition where stomach acid escapes into the esophagus, the tube that delivers food and beverages to your stomach.

Normally, stomach acid cannot escape into the esophagus because of a barrier called the lower esophageal sphincter. This is a ring-like muscle that naturally stays closed and normally only opens when you swallow or belch.

However, in people with acid reflux, this muscle is often weakened. This is one reason why people with acid reflux experience heartburn.

Diet plays an important role in heartburn. Many foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which allows food to escape into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

Here are 11 foods that can cause heartburn.

 

1. High-Fat Foods

High-fat foods may also cause heartburn.

2. Mint

Mints like peppermint and spearmint are often thought to soothe digestive conditions. However, there is some evidence that these mints may cause heartburn.

3. Citrus Juices

Drinking citrus juices may trigger heartburn symptoms.

4. Chocolate

Chocolate is another common trigger for heartburn.

5. Spicy Foods

Spicy foods are notorious for causing heartburn.

6. Salt

Consuming table salt or salty foods may increase reflux, a risk factor for heartburn.

7. Onions

Onions, especially raw onions, are a common trigger for heartburn.

8. Alcohol

Moderate to excessive alcohol intake can also cause heartburn symptoms.

9. Coffee

Some people may experience heartburn when drinking coffee.

10. Sodas and Carbonated Beverages

Sodas and carbonated beverages are also common culprits of heartburn.

11. Milk

People commonly consume milk to treat heartburn. However, drinking whole milk may actually cause symptoms, not relieve them.

Foods That May Help Relieve Heartburn

While many foods can make your heartburn worse, there are several foods that may help relieve symptoms.

Here are some foods that may help relieve heartburn:

·         Ginger: This is a natural remedy for nausea and vomiting.

·         Bananas and melons: These fruits are naturally low in acid and are often recommended to reduce reflux.

·         Green veggies: Naturally low in fat, acid and sugar, green veggies include green beans, broccoli, spinach and celery.

·         Oatmeal: Oatmeal is packed with fiber, which is linked to a lower risk of acid reflux.

·         Grains and potatoes: Research has found that consuming grains and potatoes is linked to a 42% lower risk of gastro-esophageal reflux disease or GERD.

You can also try adding foods to your diet that help relieve heartburn, such as bananas, melons, oatmeal, grains, potatoes, ginger and green veggies.