Heartburn is a symptom that does not involve the heart. The pain originates in the esophagus, often in the chest area. The pain occurs when acid from the stomach leaks out and burns the esophagus. While there are no universal foods that trigger symptoms in all people, there are general food guidelines to help you determine your individual triggers.
Caffeinated Foods
Caffeinated drinks and foods are common trigger foods for people who suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease and heartburn, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, frozen desserts, energy drinks and sodas.
Fatty and Spicy Foods
Fatty and spicy foods are common triggers, according to the American Gastroenterological Association. You may have to experiment with foods to determine the specific combinations that you are not able to eat, but many people with heartburn find it difficult to eat foods that are high in animal fat, such as kielbasa and pork, or they are bothered by pizza and fried foods, according to FamilyDoctor.org. Chili, curry and hot peppers can also trigger heartburn symptoms.
Acidic Foods
Foods that are either acidic or alkaline can cause increased irritation in the stomach and leakage of acid into the lower esophagus, according to the American Gastroenterological Association. These acidic foods include ketchup, mustard, vinegar, tomato sauce and raw tomatoes, or citrus fruits and juices.
Alcohol
According to FamilyDoctor.org, significantly reduce or eliminate alcohol in your diet. Those drinks that cause the most trouble include beer, hard liquor and wine. Fermentation of alcohol also produces substances that increases the irritability of the stomach lining and could increase your symptoms.
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