What Foods Should Be Avoided With Acid Reflex?

Acid reflux can burn your esophagus, and if you have acid reflux often enough, it can cause permanent damage. Eating certain foods can bring about or worsen acid reflux and you should avoid them. If you have acid reflux more than twice per week, talk to your physician. He may prescribe medications to help neutralize acid and recommend a special diet plan.

Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can trigger and worsen acid reflux, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Foods made with hot peppers, such as jalapeños or cayenne pepper, sometimes can cause acid reflux. Other spicy foods, such as chili, hot wings and spicy nachos, can cause reflux, as well.

Foods that Contain Caffeine

Caffeine can bring on and worsen the symptoms of acid reflux, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. Foods that contain caffeine include chocolate, brownies, cookies, sugary desserts, tea and soda. These types of foods and drinks contain large amounts of sugar and caffeine.

Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits can make acid reflux worse and cause additional burning, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. They can cause additional stomach acid, which adds to the original problems of acid reflux. The citrus acid can aggravate your condition and prolong symptoms.

Tomato-Based Foods

Tomato-based foods can worsen the symptoms of acid reflux and cause a sudden onset of the symptoms associated with acid reflux. Spaghetti sauce, pizza and marinara sauce include tomato sauce, which is naturally acidic, according to TeensHealth.

Garlic and Onions

Garlic and onions can bring about the symptoms of acid reflux and prolong symptoms. Seasoning your food with garlic or including a side of onions can also cause stomach bloating, gas and heartburn, according to TeensHealth.

Fried and Fatty Foods

Fried and fatty foods are full of grease and cholesterol, which can make digestion a difficult task for your body to handle, especially if you have gallbladder issues. Fried and fatty foods, such as fried chicken, fatty cuts of meat and other deep-fried foods can add to stomach acid while making it harder for your digestive system to work efficiently, according to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. The fat, grease and cholesterol from these foods may not sit well on your stomach and eventually work their way back up.

References

Article reviewed by Glenn Singer Last updated on: Mar 5, 2011

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