Have you ever eaten a meal and later experienced a burning sensation in your chest or throat? This may be acid reflux, which happens when stomach contents flow back into the oesophagus. Certain foods can trigger or worsen symptoms in some people, although everyone’s triggers are different.
1. Very spicy foods. Peppery meals may worsen heartburn in some people. If you notice discomfort after eating heavily spiced food, try reducing the pepper and observing whether symptoms improve.
2. Fried and fatty foods
Meals containing large amounts of oil and fat may worsen reflux symptoms for some individuals. Reducing very oily meals may help.
3. Citrus fruits
Oranges, lemons and other acidic fruits can trigger discomfort in some people who experience reflux. You do not necessarily need to avoid them unless they cause symptoms.
4. Tomatoes and tomato-based sauces
Tomatoes are naturally acidic. Tomato stew, sauces and other tomato-based dishes may worsen symptoms in people who are sensitive to them.
5. Chocolate
Chocolate can trigger reflux in some individuals. If you regularly experience heartburn after eating it, consider reducing your intake.
6. Coffee and caffeinated drinks
Coffee and some other caffeinated beverages may worsen reflux symptoms in certain people. Pay attention to how your body responds.
7. Fizzy drinks
Carbonated drinks can increase bloating and may contribute to discomfort. Some people find that reducing them helps manage reflux.
Final thoughts
Food triggers are not the same for everyone. Eating smaller meals, avoiding lying down immediately after eating and keeping track of your symptoms may help. Frequent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss or chest pain should be medically assessed.
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