Why do Fried Foods Cause Heartburn?

Fried foods can cause heartburn in many people, but particularly in people with Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). The "heartburn" you feel results from stomach acid that has escaped the stomach.

Fat Content

• Fried foods are fried in fats and oils, both of which are difficult to digest. Poorly drained and prepared fried foods absorb some of the fat into the food itself; when you eat it, this fat is then passed into your gastrointestinal tract.

Causes

• Fatty and fried foods take an extended time to digest, and cause food to be held in the stomach longer. In turn, the excess food present in the stomach causes the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, allowing acid into the esophagus.

External Causes

• Too much food or pressure on the stomach can also relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which when flexed, prevents foods and acid from draining back into the esophagus. Injuries--such as protrusion of the stomach into the diaphragm, known as hiatal hernia--can contribute to heartburn. Obesity and tight clothing are also common causes of pressure on the stomach which contribute to heartburn.

Contributing Factors

• Smoking, caffeinated beverages and acidic foods can also contribute to and cause heartburn.

Prevention

• Fried foods should be drained well and eaten only in moderation. Also, eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of larger ones to allow the stomach to drain properly.