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Ten Foods That Contribute to Heartburn
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Foods That Contribute to Heartburn
When the lower esophageal sphincter weakens or closes abnormally, stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus causing heartburn. Occasional heartburn is common and can be controlled by avoiding certain foods. However, see your physician if your symptom of heartburn occurs more than twice a week, you have difficulty swallowing and you get no relief from over-the-counter medications. Photo: Getty Images
High Fat Foods
The foods that contribute to acid reflux vary from person to person. However, foods that are high in fat commonly cause heartburn. Fried foods, high fat cuts of meat such as ground chuck, and high fat dairy products such ice cream trigger that burning sensation in the center of your chest. Fat takes a longer time to digest. For this reason, the stomach stays distended and puts pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter. The prolonged pressure weakens the sphincter causing acid reflux. Photo: Getty Images
Spicy Foods
Foods that are flavored with hot spicy chilies and black pepper contribute to heartburn. If you have a damaged esophagus, spicy foods cause further irritation. Some people experience heartburn as a burning in the throat. Photo: Getty Images
Alcohol
Regular alcohol consumption significantly weakens the lower esophageal sphincter. It is a leading risk factor for heartburn. Alcohol reduces the ability of the esophagus to clear refluxed gastric acid. Photo: Getty Images
Highly Acidic Foods
Citrus fruits and tomatoes are highly acidic foods that contribute to heartburn. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons and their juices, vinegar, tomatoes and tomato-based products such as ketchup impair the normal function of the lower esophageal sphincter. Garlic and raw onions are thought to weaken the lower esophageal sphincter. For some individuals heartburn presents as a sour or acidic tasting fluid at the back of the throat. Photo: Getty Images
Caffeine
Chocolate, coffee, decaffeinated coffee, tea and most caffeinated beverages contribute to heartburn. These beverages irritate an inflamed esophagus and should be avoided to prevent heartburn. Photo: Getty Images
Carbonated Soft Drinks
Carbonated soft drink consumption is linked to nighttime heartburn. The high acidity level in soda is to blame. The pain of heartburn often come when lying on your back. Nighttime heartburn disturbs sleep patterns and adversely impacts your ability to function the next day.
Sources:
TreatHeartburn.org: Foods That Cause Heartburn
Montana State University: Alcohol and GI Tract
FamilyDoctor.org: Heartburn
Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Diet
The Medical News: Carbonated Soft Drinks Can Cause Heartburn
Article by Maryann Gromisch
Photo: Getty Images
Add a Comment1 Comments
Apple cider vinegar diluted in water is a wonderful cure for heartburn and acid reflux. My Uncle has had acid reflux for years and recently tried apple cider vinegar, and it works. No more medication.
November 17, 2010 - 1:19pmThis Comment