A muscle in the esophagus, called the lower esophageal sphincter, causes acid reflux. The valve-like muscle opens when food and beverages enter the stomach and closes to keep stomach acid from backing up. Sometimes the muscle does not close tightly and the acid flows back up into the esophagus. This results in heartburn when a burning feeling affects the chest and throat. An acidic or bitter taste may also result in the back of the throat. Certain foods may trigger acid reflux by relaxing the esophageal muscle.
Function
Acid reflux occurs occasionally for some people. Others, however, experience frequent bouts of acid reflux. When acid reflux strikes more the two times a week it indicates gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Doctors usually recommend lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, quitting smoking and avoiding offending foods along with medication to prevent or eliminate acid reflux.
Considerations
The foods that trigger acid reflux may differ among people. In many cases, people have to learn which foods or beverages cause acid reflux symptoms. A diet consisting of avoiding these offenders often helps reduce acid reflux. People can note the foods they suspect induced their acid reflux, eliminate those foods and eventually reduce symptoms.
Common Triggers
Common foods that bring on acid reflux and heartburn include fatty or fried foods, spicy foods, tomato-based products, mint flavorings, citrus fruits, garlic and onions. Alcohol, coffee and carbonated drinks also can trigger acid reflux. The particular products that affect your acid reflux symptoms, however, may be different because people react differently to foods, Medical News Today explains. Gassy foods that cause indigestion may also result in heartburn. They include beans, broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.
Large Meals
Large meals also play a role in acid reflux. Eating smaller portions during mealtime helps reduce or eliminate acid reflux because the stomach has an easier time digesting smaller amounts. Large meals may take more time to digest and result in more acid secretion that causes heartburn. Lying down or bending over shortly after a meal can trigger acid reflux. Avoid lying down two to three hours after eating to prevent heartburn.
Medical Advice
People usually reduce acid reflux by changing their diet to include safe foods, Medical News Today notes. If avoiding certain foods and eating smaller meals do not prevent your acid reflux, a doctor can help by providing medication and offering advice on lifestyle and dietary changes. Your acid reflux may also be caused by underlying conditions, such as hiatal hernia or peptic ulcer, which a doctor can determine.
