Heartburn, Problem Foods You Should Avoid Eating

Heartburn is a burning discomfort usually in the center of the chest that continues up to the throat. Stomach acid refluxes flows upwards through a valve called the lower esophageal sphincter into the esophagus and irritates its tissue. Certain foods as listed below trigger heartburn. Avoid eating them.

 

Heartburn Triggers

The First Rule you need to follow: Avoid heartburn by eating small portions. Eating too much food, no matter what type it is, will trigger it.

Eating On The Move

Very bad idea to eat on the run, gulping your food down quickly, can increase your risk.

Fatty Foods Are A Big NO-NO

You increase your risk since fatty foods take a real long time to get digested. Consequently, your stomach acid increases, which can trigger heartburn. Moreover, you further multiply your risk if you eat large amounts of these high-fat foods.

Acidic Foods

Eat moderate amounts of high acidic foods such as tomatoes, oranges, grapefruits, and salad dressings. Combine these with pasta and vegetables to further reduce the acidic levels.

Beverages That Trigger Heartburn

Drink coffee, caffeinated tea, carbonated drinks, and alcoholic beverages in moderation. Caffeine boosts acid in your stomach. Alcoholic beverages causes the lower esophageal sphincter to let gastric contents enter the esophagus. In addition, carbonated drinks with or without caffeine will bloat your stomach and increase your risk for heartburn. Instead, drink plenty of water, non-caffeinated beverages, and milk.

Chocolate

Chocolate is a trigger as it contains caffeine and fat. Avoid eating chocolate after a heavy meal and on an empty stomach.

Spicy Foods

Avoid eating spicy foods such as jalapeno peppers, garlic, and onions.

 

Chew Gum

Chew lots of gum, as it produces saliva. Saliva neutralizes acid and signals the stomach to move its contents into the small intestine. Peppermint or mint gum should be avoided since they may relax the lower esophageal sphincter and increase the risk for heartburn.

More Tips  

Space your meals. Also, allow about three hours between dinner and bedtime. In addition, also elevate the head of your bed by about 8 inches to facilitate good digestion. Of course, stop smoking and remember that proper nutrition and exercise leads to a healthy lifestyle.

Good Luck!