Acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux) happens when digestive juices rise into the esophagus after eating, drawing an unpleasant taste to a person's mouth. Occasional acid reflux is common and generally alleviates itself without medical treatment. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse (NDDIC), acid reflux that occurs more than once per week indicates a more serious condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Though foods aren't known to cause acid reflux, they may trigger or exacerbate symptoms.
Food Triggers
Foods affect people with acid reflux differently. However, many foods are considered "bad" for those with GERD or recurrent acid reflux, as they frequently cause or exacerbate symptoms. These foods include oranges, lemons, grapefruit, tangerines, chocolate, onions, garlic, peppermint or mint flavoring, tomatoes and tomato products, such as tomato sauce, salsa, pizza and chili. High-fat and greasy foods, such as fatty red meat, high-fat cheese, french fries, potato chips and bacon may also cause or worsen acid reflux.
Beverage Triggers
Certain beverages can also trigger or worsen acid reflux symptoms. For this reason, people with recurrent acid reflux may benefit from avoiding or limiting intake of caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, soft drinks and energy drinks. Excessive alcoholic intake, carbonated drinks and acidic beverages, such as lemonade and citrus juices, may also trigger symptoms.
Effects
Once trigger foods or beverages are consumed, various symptoms may arise. In addition to a sour or bitter flavor in the mouth, acid reflux may cause a hoarse cough, difficulty swallowing and heartburn--a burning sensation in the chest. According to natural health expert Dr. Andrew Weil, if GERD is not treated, it can lead to damaging complications, such as esophagitis--a condition that causes inflammation in the esophagus--or Barrett's esophagus--a condition that precedes cancer. Asthma, chronic cough, sleep problems and heart problems may worsen when people with GERD consume foods and beverages that trigger acid reflux and related symptoms.
Time Frame
Acid reflux symptoms may arise promptly after a person consumes trigger foods or beverages or several hours later. The NDDIC recommends not eating for two to three hours prior to bedtime and remaining in an upright position following meals because lying down can trigger or worsen acid reflux. Lying down may also cause acid reflux symptoms to develop more quickly. Avoiding suspected trigger foods and beverages varies in effectiveness because other factors may contribute to the condition. If all suspected factors, including lifestyle factors, are addressed, acid reflux may alleviate with greater efficiency.
Suggestions
People who experience occasional acid reflux may wish to avoid foods and beverages thought to evoke symptoms. Recurrent or long-lasting acid reflux, and acid reflux accompanied by additional symptoms such as pain, should be addressed by a physician. Those diagnosed with GERD may benefit from managing their weight, stopping or avoiding alcohol and tobacco products, and seeking a means of stress reduction. In some cases, medications or procedures are required. The NDDIC also suggests consuming small, frequent meals rather than one or two large daily meals, and avoiding tight-fitting clothing.
