Heartburn is a common condition that occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing discomfort and pain in the chest area.

While certain medical conditions and stress can cause heartburn, certain foods can trigger and aggravate heartburn symptoms in some people.

What Foods Should You Avoid?

It’s essential to know which foods can cause and exacerbate heartburn symptoms, so you can make healthier and more informed eating choices. Here are some common foods that you should avoid or limit:.

Citrus Fruits and Juices

Citrus fruits and juices, like oranges, lemons, grapefruits, and lime, are very acidic and can trigger heartburn symptoms in some people.

If you experience heartburn frequently, it’s recommended to avoid or limit your consumption of citrus fruits and juices to reduce heartburn symptoms.

Tomatoes and Tomato-Based Foods

Tomatoes are also highly acidic, and tomato-based foods, like pizza, pasta sauce, and salsa, can cause heartburn in people who are prone to it.

If you enjoy eating tomatoes, try to cook them more thoroughly and avoid consuming them raw, which can be harder on the stomach.

Chocolate

As much as you may love chocolate, it’s not your stomach’s best friend.

Chocolate contains high levels of caffeine and a substance called theobromine, which can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax and increase the risk of acid reflux. Limiting your chocolate consumption can help reduce heartburn symptoms.

Caffeinated and Carbonated Beverages

Beverages that are carbonated and contain caffeine, like soda, energy drinks, and coffee, can trigger heartburn and cause acid reflux.

These drinks can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back upwards, causing heartburn and discomfort. Avoiding or reducing carbonated and caffeinated beverages can considerably reduce your heartburn symptoms.

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Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can be exciting and enjoyable, but they can also cause heartburn in people who are susceptible to it.

Spices like chili powder, black pepper, garlic, and onion acid can cause irritation and inflammation in the gut, which can lead to heartburn. Limiting the consumption of spicy foods can be helpful in reducing heartburn attacks.

What Foods Can You Eat If You Have Heartburn?

If you have heartburn, it’s essential to make healthier food choices to minimize its symptoms. Here are some foods that you can eat without worrying about your heartburn symptoms:.

Bananas

Bananas are a low-acidic fruit that can be enjoyed even by people with heartburn. The fruit’s soft and mushy texture makes it one of the best foods for people with heartburn. You can enjoy bananas as a snack or add them to smoothies or oatmeal.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber, and it’s also a low-acidic food that is great for people with heartburn. A bowl of oatmeal can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce heartburn symptoms.

You can top it with some bananas to make it more delicious.

Ginger

Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties, and it can soothe an upset stomach. Drinking ginger tea or chewing ginger can help reduce heartburn symptoms and improve digestion.

Lean Protein

Eating lean protein like chicken, fish, and tofu can help reduce heartburn symptoms. These foods are low in fat and do not trigger acid reflux, making them safe to eat for people with heartburn. You can add them to your salad or stir-fry dishes.

Conclusion

Heartburn can be bothersome and uncomfortable, but making healthier food choices can minimize its symptoms.

Avoiding or limiting foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, caffeinated and carbonated beverages, and spicy foods can be helpful to reduce heartburn symptoms. On the other hand, eating low-acidic foods like bananas, oatmeal, ginger, and lean protein can help neutralize stomach acid and improve digestion, reducing heartburn symptoms.