7 Foods You Should Avoid With Heartburn

These foods very often lead to heartburn, but everyone has to observe for themselves which foods they tolerate and which are harmful for them. 

Heartburn is a digestive disorder in which  there is a burning sensation in the upper part of the abdomen,  often up to the chest and lower throat. You should avoid certain foods if you have  heartburn in order to  prevent complications or a chronic illness.

Normally, the esophageal sphincter prevents stomach acid from rising, but when it does not work properly, the acid can flow back up the esophagus and cause uncomfortable symptoms.

The pain can be mild, but it can also be very intense. In some cases, heartburn can be mistaken for a heart attack! 

Poor food combinations and heavy meals can lead to heartburn and painful reflux, but an irritable stomach, inflamed esophagus or lining, stomach ulcer, or other digestive problems can also cause symptoms.

It is a widespread condition that usually occurs sporadically, but can also lead to complications and become chronic. Therefore, timely treatment is fundamental so that the situation does not worsen.

In today’s post you will find 7 foods you should avoid if you have  heartburn  !

1. Avoid red meat for heartburn

Red meat is a wonderful source of protein and, in small amounts, can have certain benefits for the body.

However, red meat is not recommended for patients with heartburn and painful reflux, as it could worsen the symptoms.

• The purines and acids it contains affect the digestive process  and stimulate the production of stomach acid.
• Red meat also contains fat, which can cause slow digestion and constipation.

2. Refrain from coffee if you have heartburn

The smell of coffee alone puts many people in a good mood. Coffee is very popular and perks you up, which is why this drink is consumed by many on a daily basis.

Coffee contains modest amounts of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals and can do a lot for your health.

But if you suffer from heartburn or reflux, you  should better avoid it, because the caffeine it contains could cause symptoms. 

• Caffeine has a relaxing effect on the sphincter muscles that hold back gastric juices and can therefore cause the acids to enter the esophagus.

3. Avoid sausages and canned food if you have heartburn

Sausages and canned food can also lead to indigestion, especially if you have frequent painful reflux and heartburn.

• The high content of sodium and artificial ingredients leads to irritation of the gastric mucosa and can therefore  trigger the reflux of acids into the esophagus.
• In addition, these foods contain saturated fat, flour and sugar, which can lead to metabolic disorders and indigestion.

4. Avoid hot spices for heartburn

Hot spices can lead to changes in stomach acids and irritate the stomach lining.

Small amounts usually don’t cause discomfort,  but in some people it can cause reflux and heartburn.

• It is therefore important to eat as few spicy foods as possible, especially when these are combined with other harmful foods.

5. Avoid chocolate for heartburn

A little chocolate provides the organism with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that are important and beneficial for health.

But if you have indigestion, it would be better to avoid it, otherwise it could get worse.

• In heartburn, it can  weaken the sphincter muscles of the lower esophageal sphincter,  making the symptoms worse.
• This is due to the fats, caffeine and the active ingredient theobromine, which stimulate the production of stomach acid.

6. Avoid fried foods if you have heartburn

Fried foods, especially those industrially produced, are among the worst enemies of metabolism and digestive health.

They contain unhealthy trans fats, chemical additives, and a lot of salt. These substances  irritate the stomach lining and impair the pH value in the digestive tract. 

• Consumption of these foods increases acid production and can provoke repeated episodes of reflux or gastritis.
• In other cases, excessive consumption of fried dishes  leads to inflammatory reactions in the organism and increases gastric pressure.
  

7. Avoid white flour for heartburn

Manufactured pastries and recipes made with white flour can also make symptoms worse.

• This creates  an acidic environment in the stomach and esophagus. In addition, it promotes inflammatory processes in the tissue.
• These carbohydrates are difficult to digest and can also increase blood sugar levels.
• Therefore, you should reduce your consumption of white flour  to avoid related complaints such as stomach ulcers and gastritis. 

If you suffer from heartburn, you should avoid these foods as much as possible. While antacids can relieve symptoms, it  is best to eat healthy so that it doesn’t get that far in the first place.