Acid indigestion, also known as acid reflux, occurs when the acidic contents of the stomach backs up into the throat, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. If you suffer from acid indigestion more than twice a week, you may have gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Avoiding certain foods and drinks may help alleviate the symptoms associated with acid indigestion.
Foods High in Fat
The lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, is a valve that separates the contents of the stomach from the esophagus. Foods high in fat decrease LES pressure allowing the contents of the stomach to enter the esophagus causing acid indigestion. Avoiding fried foods and foods high in fat can help prevent acid indigestion. Foods to avoid include french fries, fried chicken, fatty meats, bacon, sausage, whole milk, fried cheese, pizza, most fast food, cream soups and any other fried foods. In addition to avoiding foods high in fat, it also helps if you eat smaller meals more frequently to prevent your stomach from becoming too full.
Chocolate
Chocolate can also increase acid indigestion and should be avoided. Chocolate contains methylxanthine, which relaxes smooth muscle tissue and lowers LES pressure, increasing acid reflux.
Coffee
Coffee with or without caffeine can aggravate your acid indigestion. Intake depends on tolerance, according to the McKinley Health Center. If coffee increases your acid reflux you should avoid drinking it.
Acidic Foods
Acidic foods can increase your symptoms and should be avoided if you have acid indigestion. Acidic foods include citrus fruits, vinegar, tomatoes and tomato products, pineapple and strawberries.
Carbonated Beverages
Carbonation in drinks can also irritate the esophagus and should be avoided in cases of acid indigestion. Carbonated beverages include soft drinks and seltzer water. Drinking flat beverages in between meals can also help decrease acid indigestion by preventing the stomach from becoming too full during meal times.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods and cuisines should also be avoided with acid indigestion. Spicy foods irritate the esophagus. Examples of spicy foods include salsa, hot sauce, Tabasco sauce and chili. You may also need to avoid certain spicy cuisines when you have acid reflux, including Mexican, Thai and certain Chinese dishes.
Mint
Foods with mint, including peppermint and spearmint, also aggravate acid indigestion and should be avoided to prevent symptoms. Foods to avoid include candies and gum.
Caffeine
Caffeine can also increase your symptoms associated with acid indigestion and should be avoided. Other than coffee, foods with caffeine include colas, energy drinks, tea and coffee flavored ice creams.
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