Heartburn is the condition in which a burning sensation develops in the lower part of your chest, often accompanied by an odd taste in your mouth. The burning, and the taste, result from the reflux of stomach acid and undigested food through a valve between the esophagus and stomach that doesn't completely close. Factors associated with heartburn include pregnancy, stress and hiatal hernia, according to Family Doctor. Additionally, certain foods can cause heartburn or make symptoms worse. This is why it is important to identify and avoid trigger foods when you have heartburn. Check with your doctor before making significant changes to your diet.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and grapefruit can make heartburn worse. This is because the high acidic content of these fruits can cause irritation and pain in the esophagus. Don't avoid all fruits however, as they are a rich source of nutrients like vitamin C and dietary fiber. Choose less acidic fruits like apples, grapes and pears, which are usually easier to tolerate, with less risk of heartburn.
Beverages With Citrus, Caffeine or Alcohol
Beverages that contain citrus juices have an effect similar to that of citrus fruits and can worsen heartburn symptoms. Additionally, carbonated and caffeinated beverages can cause problems, because the carbonation or caffeine can stimulate the stomach lining or the valve to the esophagus, causing reflux. Regular coffee also tends to be acidic, which can add to the acid in your stomach, causing stomach upset and heartburn. Alcohol can cause the valve to the esophagus to relax, allowing the contents of your stomach to return and causing heartburn. Talk with your doctor about other beverages that may be causing you problems as well, including milk products, beverages made with artificial sweeteners, and tea.
Mint and Mint Flavoring
The University of Maryland explains that although peppermint and other mints are often used to treat stomach upset, they should be avoided if you have heartburn or reflux. Much like alcohol, peppermint relaxes the valve between the stomach and esophagus, making it easier for food and acid to cause heartburn. For some individuals with heartburn, products that contain peppermint or mint flavoring can also have this effect, so they, too, are best avoided. If you take an over the counter antacid that is mint-flavored and aren't experiencing relief, try a non-mint flavored version instead.
Fried or High Fat Foods
Although it hasn't been found to affect every person with heartburn, people with the condition should avoid eating excess amounts of fat, particularly fried and high fat foods. According to Health Central, diets that are high in fat also contribute to obesity. Obesity is a risk factor for developing heartburn, acid reflux and related disorders. Decreasing the amount of high fat foods you eat can help reduce heartburn symptoms, and can help you lose weight. If you are trying to lose weight, focus on healthy fats that are found in foods like fish and avoid adding fats to the foods you eat. Read nutritional labels for hidden sources of excess fat and avoid products that contain any kind of fat that appears in the first few ingredients.
