A hiatal hernia is a condition in which the upper part of the stomach pushes through a small opening in the diaphragm into the chest cavity, according to the University of Southern California. The exact cause of hiatal hernia is unknown, but weakened stomach muscles may contribute to its development. Although some people do not have any symptoms, others experience heartburn or indigestion, stomach or esophageal pain, belching, throat irritation, chest pain and stomach or esophageal bleeding. Knowing what foods irritate hiatal hernia can help you avoid the pain and discomfort commonly associated with this condition.
Citric Fruits
Fruits that contain citric acid can increase stomach acid and trigger heartburn, according to MayoClinic.com. Acidic fruits, such as oranges, lemons, lemonade, grapefruits and cranberries may cause belching, chest pain and nausea.
Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages, such as caffeinated sodas, can increase stomach acid and exacerbate stomach pain, according to the American Liver Society.
Garlic and Onions
Foods that contain garlic and onions, such as chili, pizza and tomato-based spaghetti sauce, can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter muscle, increase the amount of acid in the stomach, trigger acid reflux and aggravate stomach pain. In addition, some spices such as hot peppers can irritate the esophageal lining and irritate a hiatal hernia.
Chocolate
Chocolate can produce excess stomach acid and irritate the internal lining of the esophagus, which can lead to heartburn, a dry cough, asthma symptoms or trouble swallowing.
Fatty Foods
According to the MayoClinic.com, fat delays the process of the stomach emptying its contents. Foods that are high in fat, such as steaks, pork chops, sausages, hamburgers and fried chicken, can stay in the digestive system for prolonged periods and cause excess stomach acid and indigestion.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Hiatal Hernia
- American Liver Society: Heartburn, Hiatal Hernia, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Heartburn, Gastroesophageal Reflux (GER), and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
- MayoClinic.com: Bloating, Burping and Intestinal Gas: How to Avoid Them
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Hiatal Hernia
- University of Southern California: Hiatal Hernia
