The American College of Gastroenterology states that more than 15 million Americans suffer heartburn symptoms daily. Heartburn is commercialized as a condition that must be treated with over-the-counter medications, when in reality, heartburn can sometimes be controlled with diet alone. Certain foods will cause acid reflux -- also known as acid indigestion or heartburn -- according to the American Gastroenterological Association. The American Gastroenterological Association encourages keeping a food diary to better track which foods cause an acid attack.
Tomato Products
Tomatoes are high in acid content and are frequently responsible for acid reflux. Regardless of whether tomatoes are raw, as on a salad, or cooked on a pizza, they lower the ph level of the stomach acid and cause heartburn according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Avoid any products with tomatoes including chili, spaghetti sauce and salsas.
Citrus
Oranges, lemons and limes are high in citric acid, which will exacerbate acid reflux according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Just as with tomato ingestion, eating citrus fruits or juices boosts the acid content in the stomach and complicates acid reflux.
Fried Foods
Foods high in fat content, especially fried foods, are difficult for the body to digest. In response, the body increases stomach acid production. This increased acid production can lead to a reflux of acid up the esophagus -- the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach. An alternative to frying foods is to broil, bake or sauté them.
Spices and Condiments
Spicy foods and certain spices irritate the stomach lining and cause acid reflux, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. For example, garlic and onions can cause heartburn. Pass on the condiments, as the American Gastroenterological Association states that ketchup and mustard elicit can an acid attack.
Alcohol and Desserts
Gastroenterological Consultants Peter Gardner and Stuart Waldstreicher state that some foods and beverages, like mint, chocolate and alcohol can cause acid reflux by relaxing the sphincter, which is the muscle that blocks contents from leaving the stomach. Mint and chocolate are frequently found in desserts and as garnishes for certain dishes.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- American Gastroenterological Association: Understanding Heartburn and Reflux Disease
- American College of Gastroenterology: Common Gastrointestinal Problems
- Gastroenterology Consultants, PC: Facts and Fallacies About Digestive Diseases
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