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What Types of Foods Causes Heartburn?

Contrary to popular belief, the term heartburn is actually a misnomer. Heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. It is, in fact, a regurgitation of gastric juices, which causes a painful burning sensation in the esophagus, just below the breast bone. The potency of heartburn is based on an individual's sensitivity to certain foods. These foods should be avoided if they give you any form of discomfort.

  1. Acidic Foods

    • One of the primary causes of heartburn is a high level of acidity in the food you are eating. If you are prone to discomfort when you eat, it is best to avoid foods with high levels of acidity. Some foods that fall into this category include citrus fruits, peppermint, tomatoes, tomato-based sauces, raw onions or garlic. Chocolate can also cause flareups.

    Fat and Grease

    • Foods that everyone should eat in moderation are foods high in fat and grease. These foods should especially be limited if you are prone to heartburn. Fatty foods slow digestion, meaning the stomach acids, as well as the food, stay in your stomach for an extended period of time. This gives a greater chance that the acids will work their way back up your esophagus.

    Spices

    • Spices do not need to be completely avoided but should be used with moderation. Different spices will produce different results, so it is key that you monitor which spices aggravate your condition. Dill, thyme, tarragon, basil, onion powder, pepper, red pepper flakes, Tabasco sauce, chili powder, curry and nutmeg are just a few of the many spices known to cause heartburn.

    Vinegar

    • Vinegar can cause a surge in heartburn pain. Vinegars should be avoided, especially if your tolerance for heartburn-causing foods is very low. Some vinegars have been known to be tolerable. Rice vinegar and cider vinegar have both been shown to be OK to ingest. However, if your pain is particularly bad, you might just want to avoid vinegar period. It's better to err on the safe side.

    Drinks

    • A lot of beverages have been shown to aggravate the condition in many people. Coffee, citrus juices and drinks that have caffeine, and are carbonated, should be avoided. Alcoholic beverages should also be avoided. Alcohol, and caffeine, strengthen stomach acids, making them even more irritating when they make their way back up your esophagus.

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