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Foods that Cause Heartburn

Kritika Parwani
The most common cause of heartburn is the foods that we eat. If we avoid certain foods that cause heartburn, we can get to the root of problem, and in time, eliminate it. This write-up describes the food items that cause burning sensation in the chest.
Research has shown that more than forty percent of people in America suffer from heartburn. Heartburn is a fiery sensation that grabs hold of your lower chest followed by a bitter taste of acid reflux in your mouth, that can last for a few minutes or a few hours.
Having antacids like Tums and Rolaids provides only temporary relief. However, to get rid of or at least avoid this problem, the best solution is to avoid certain kinds of food. The foods that you eat are a major factor in causing burning sensation in the chest. Therefore, it is very important to be aware of such food items. They are mentioned ahead:

Tangy Citrus Fruits

Tangy citrus fruits like oranges and grapefruits are very acidic. Therefore, they cause a lot of heartburn, especially when consumed on an empty stomach.

Tomatoes

Though tomatoes may contain some very healthy nutrients, like lycopene, which are very good for lowering cancer risks, it is very important to avoid them due to their high-acid content. Any foodstuffs made primarily in tomato-based sauce, like pasta, should specifically be avoided.

Garlic and Onion

Garlic and onions can also cause this problem though this may not be the case with all people.
Some people might not be affected while others may be highly affected even after consumption of a little bit of onion or garlic. To find out if you are affected by them, it is better to keep a food journal to note the food items you have eaten that have led to heartburn.

Spicy Food

Spicy food is a very common cause of heartburn in many people. Peppers, chillies, or other spices, if taken in large quantities in your diet, may result in burning sensation in your chest.

Foods High in Fat

Though most people affected by this problem avoid fried stuff; but they don't realize that foodstuffs like cheese, nuts, avocados, etc. are high in fat. Fats slow down the emptying of stomach, increasing the pressure on the esophagus and results in heartburn.

Caffeine

Whether in coffee, soda, iced tea, or any other beverages, caffeine when consumed, can cause heartburn. Therefore, try to cut down the number of cups of coffee and reduce the size of the cup. Also, try not to consume more than 3 or 4 cups of coffee everyday.

Alcohol

Though you may not realize it, but your favorite cocktail, beer, or even wine, if consumed along with a heavy meal, can cause heartburn.

Chocolate

Chocolates are also food items that cause this problem. An occasional piece of chocolate is not prohibited, but if you have a habit of having chocolates everyday after meals, then it may result in heartburn. So, it's best to indulge yourself occasionally.
The burning sensation may vary from person to person, so it's best that you keep a food journal and monitor what you eat everyday. This will make you take a note of the foods that affect you and the foods that don't. But, the most important point to remember is to maintain moderation since any foodstuff in excess will affect you.
Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only and does not in any way attempt to replace the advice offered by an expert on the subject.