Foods To Avoid That Cause Heartburn

Heartburn occurs when stomach acid refluxes, or backs up, into the esophagus or throat, causing a burning sensation under the breastbone, according to the University of Pennsylvania Health System. Heartburn may be caused by eating certain foods, smoking, being obese, wearing tight-fitting clothing or being pregnant. Along with taking antacids, over-the-counter reflux medications or making lifestyle changes, you can prevent heartburn by avoiding fatty, spicy or acidic foods, as well as some caffeinated beverages.

Fatty Foods

According to the McKinley Health Center at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, high-fat foods, such as fried foods and cream-based sauces or soups, as well as large meal portions that contain a high total amount of fat, have a tendency to decrease lower esophageal pressure and delay stomach emptying. This delay, in turn, increases the risk of reflux that can cause heartburn.

Spicy Foods

According to the University of Pennsylvania Health System, spicy foods, especially foods containing paprika, vinegar, chili peppers or jalapeno peppers, can cause irritation and discomfort associated with acid indigestion, or heartburn.

Acidic Foods

The National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse recommends avoiding acidic foods such as spaghetti sauce, salsa, chili and pizza, which contain tomato-based products, as well as oranges, lemons, grapefruit, pineapple and other citrus fruits, all of which can increase your risk of developing heartburn. Juices that contain tomato or citrus fruit juices can also increase risk of heartburn.

Other Foods to Avoid

Chocolate and certain beverages can trigger episodes of heartburn, according to the McKinley Health Center. Chocolate contains the compound methylxanthine, which can reduce pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of stomach contents refluxing and leading to heartburn. In addition, coffee, both caffeinated or decaffeinated, as well as alcohol and carbonated beverages may all cause irritation that can lead to heartburn.