Which Foods Cause Heartburn?

The feeling of bitter or sour taste in the throat, "bloating" of the stomach, rumbling or belching, burning sensation in the throat, we define as heartburn. Most often, heartburn occurs after consuming large amounts of food and subsequent exercise or going to bed.
They can last minutes to several hours.

Our stomach produces one of the strongest acids - hydrochloric acid , as part of gastric juice. This acid helps digest food. With increased production of gastric juice or the protective mechanisms of the stomach are not well enough built, part of it enters the esophagus.

If this process occurs frequently and for hours, the acid affects the lining of the esophagus, provoking a feeling of pain, burning and discomfort .

According to statistics, 1/3 of the Bulgarian population suffers from heartburn . About 70% of people affected by the problem are not treated at all ...

Which foods and beverages can cause heartburn?

1. Chocolate

Bad news for chocolate lovers. It contains caffeine and other stimulants such as theobromine , which increase the risk of the condition.


The fat and cocoa content of chocolate also causes heartburn.


Therefore, nutritionists recommend not to overdo the consumption of sweet temptation.

2. Carbonated drinks

Carbonated water and other carbonated beverages are among the main products that can cause heartburn. Bubbles from carbonization expand the stomach and the increased pressure contributes to the problem.


Studies show that the use of a can of Coca-Cola, for example, increases the acidity of the stomach and this lasts for 53 minutes. If a person drinks two cans of Coca-Cola a day for 20 years, it can seriously damage their health.

3. Fried foods

It is known that fried foods are not good for health, especially for our digestive system. Their consumption causes heartburn and burning behind the sternum .


Fried foods are also on this list due to their high fat content.

4. Smoking and alcohol

Abuse of tobacco products and alcohol, especially red wine and beer, is thought to contribute to heartburn.


Consumption of large portions of food , along with a lot of alcohol, further predisposes to their appearance.


Experts advise not to consume more than one drink, and it is not recommended to mix alcohol with orange juice or carbonated beverage.

5. High fat content in dairy and meat products

All foods high in fat can cause heartburn. High - fat dairy products and fatty meats , such as beef, pork and lamb, are no exception.


Therefore, we should consume more low -fat foods, but not completely exclude them from our diet, experts say.

6. Caffeine

There is no danger for those who consume a cup of coffee a day , but serious fans of caffeinated beverages, who drink several doses, are at risk of heartburn.


If you have complaints, replace caffeine with chamomile tea , which is one of the most useful herbal teas. Another option is green tea , a cup a day if lightly brewed.  


It should be borne in mind that sensitivity to food varies considerably and some people may experience worsening of their complaints when taking onions, lettuce, rye bread, garlic .


It is advisable to seek medical attention if difficulty in swallowing solid food or liquids occurs ; you vomit bloodor notice blood in your stools ; you have heartburn and burning behind the sternum more often than 3 times a week for a period longer than 2 weeks; you feel severe shortness of breath for no apparent reason.