Foods usually do not cause heartburn, but they can aggravate your condition and cause symptoms. Certain foods can cause symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, which allows digestive juices to splash up into the esophagus; irritating the esophagus; stimulating excess stomach acid production; or a combination of these factors.
Everyone reacts to foods differently, so keep track of the foods you eat and your symptoms. Share this information with your doctor.
The foods that most commonly cause symptoms of heartburn include:
Acidic foods, such as:
Citrus foods: oranges, grapefruits, and their juices
Be careful not to overeat and do not lie down right after eating; give your body time to digest. Both of these actions can bring on symptoms of heartburn.
RESOURCES:
About GERD
http://www.aboutgerd.org/
American Gastroenterological Association
http://www.gastro.org/
Sources:
The American Dietetic Association's Complete Food & Nutrition Guide. Chronimed Publishing, 1998.
American College of Gastroenterology
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
