Food for Heartburn

Most of the time, the potent acids within the gastrointestinal tract perform their various functions discretely. It is when they decide to trek up the esophagus that they cause that painful, annoying burning sensation behind the sternum known as heartburn. Whether a symptom by itself or the result of acid reflux disease among other problems, heartburn can be caused and prevented by certain foods. A brief review of these foods and how they can quell or excite the pain can help immensely in deterring heartburn.

Although not the sole determinant, a high acid content is frequently present in foods that cause heartburn. This means lemons, oranges, and tomatoes, three of the most acidic foods available for human consumption, are very likely to cause heartburn to anyone even slightly inclined.

Aside from acid content as a qualifier, liquor has an interesting effect on the sphincter that allows food into the stomach. Drinking any kind of cocktail, especially when combined with any of acidic foods, forces the sphincter open to allow the acidic exchange that results in the heartburn sensation. Depending on how often one gets heartburn and if it is heartburn alone or a symptom of a more serious problem, alcohol is still an option in moderation.

On the topic of the stomach’s sphincter, there are mechanical stressors to be avoided as well, more an issue of pressure and less a chemical effect. Forced burping, for whatever reason, will agitate and possibly open the sphincter as liquor does. Consuming carbonated drinks will also build pressure in the stomach, leaving it no choice but to relieve the pressure through the stomach’s sphincter.

The ever-enigmatic effects of caffeine will also catalyze heartburn. Combined with chocolate, which actually weakens the stomach sphincter, there is very little chance of not suffering heartburn after having caffeine.

As there are heartburn-causing foods in virtually every food group, the best practice for heartburn sufferers to establish a diet regiment is to learn the safe alternatives by group. Fruit, for example, is dangerous as was mentioned in the arena of lemons, oranges and tomatoes. Apples and bananas, however, do not perpetuate any heartburn.

Among safe vegetables to eat are the green vegetables like green beans and peas, as well as carrots.

Meat is best approached with fat and acid content in mind, the prevailing premise being that neither of which help. Any relatively lean cut of beef, chicken or lamb with modest seasoning and oil is best. Most other lean meats are fine for consumption as well.

Bread is generally not a cause of heartburn so long as it is not accompanying a fatty or acidic chili dog or pizza you should be fine. Tomato sauce on pasta should be avoided at all costs, replaced by an ideally low-fat alternative.

A consolidated, comprehensive detailing of information on foods for heartburn is available to anyone who downloads the Reflux Remedy Report. Feel free to do so at refluxremedy.com today!