Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux or heartburn, affects 30 to 40 percent of adults, The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library reports. Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter doesn't close tightly, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth with the stomach. Acid burns the delicate tissues of the esophagus, causing gastroesophageal reflux disease. Burning pain, bloating, burping, coughing, hoarseness and wheezing occur. Certain foods worsen acid reflux for certain people, although each person must experiment to find his own particular trigger foods.
Fatty Foods
Foods high in fat contribute to acid reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing acid to move up into the esophagus, the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center School of Medicine explains. Fatty foods also delay stomach emptying, which increases the chance of acid reflux developing. Fatty foods include all fried foods, oils, whole milk, creamed soups or food and most fast foods, according to Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology.
Acidic Foods
Acidic foods such as citrus fruits and tomatoes and tomato-based sauces may cause acid reflux in some people. Oranges, grapefruit and pineapple may worsen an acid reflux attack.
Beverages
Certain beverages can increase acid reflux. Alcohol, caffeine products such as coffee, tea and soft drinks, plus decaffeinated coffee can cause an increase in acid reflux in some people.
Chocolate
Chocolate triggers acid reflux in some people. Chocolate contains methylxanthine, which relaxes smooth muscles in the lower esophageal sphincter and allows acid to pass, the McKinley Health Center of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign states.
Spicy Foods
Spicy food can also trigger acid reflux. Onions and garlic in particular worsen acid reflux in some people.
Mints
Peppermint and spearmint can cause increased acid reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter. Chewing gum and sucking on hard candies containing these substances also worsens acid reflux by increasing the amount of air swallowed, which distends the stomach, leads to burping and reflux, according to Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology.
References
- Jackson/Siegelbaum Gastroenterology: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease Diet
- The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- Harvard Medical School Family Health Guide: GERD: Heartburn and More
- Milton S. Hershey Medical Center School of Medicine: Reflux
- McKinley Health Center University of Illinois at Urbana- Champaign: The GERD Diet
