Diet plays a major role in controlling acid reflux symptoms and is the first line of therapy used for people with GERD, but some people suffer from burning discomfort, bloating and belching almost every time they eat.
About 20% of the population has gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a chronic acid reflux condition that's diagnosed by a doctor.
Normally, the esophageal sphincter (a muscular tube that lets food pass into the stomach and then cinches shut to block it from coming back up) protects the esophagus from stomach acid. However, if the sphincter relaxes, food can push upward through the loosened opening and cause acid reflux.
Foods That May Cause Heartburn
Foods commonly known to be heartburn triggers cause the esophageal sphincter to relax and delay the digestive process, letting food sit in the stomach longer. The worst culprits? Foods that are high in fat, salt or spice such as:
- Fried food
- Fast food
- Pizza
- Potato chips and other processed snacks
- Chili powder and pepper (white, black, cayenne)
- Fatty meats such as bacon and sausage
- Cheese
Other foods that can cause the same problem include:
- Tomato-based sauces
- Citrus fruits
- Chocolate
- Peppermint
- Carbonated beverages
Moderation is key since many people may not be able to or want to completely eliminate these foods, and try to avoid eating problem foods late in the evening closer to bedtime, so they're not sitting in your stomach and then coming up your esophagus when you lay down at night.
It's also a good idea to eat small frequent meals instead of bigger, heavier meals and avoid late-night dinners and bedtime snacks.