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Do you tend to binge eat mindlessly, and then end up feeling nauseated? If so, it may be because you’re struggling with acid reflux, also known as acidity. Almost all of us experience some degree of heartburn or acidity from time to time. But all the burning, bitter taste in the throat, gassy bloating in the stomach points towards acid reflux!
Whatever you eat travels through your mouth, down to your esophagus, and into your stomach. Therefore, whatever you eat has an impact on your digestive system.
It is important to understand that the condition may worsen, if you eat the wrong foods. Yes, there are several foods which may interrupt the normal digestion and pH balance of the stomach, leading to the formation of acid.
Dr Roy Patankar, Director and Gastroenterologist, Zen Multispeciality Hospital, reveals certain foods to HealthShots, which should be avoided, in case you suffer from acid reflux.
These are the foods that can aggravate acid reflux, according to Dr Patankar:
1. Caffeine
Coffee, caffeinated teas, sodas, and energy drinks contain caffeine that can intensify acid reflux episodes, and cause heartburn too. It is better to eliminate caffeine from your diet completely.
2. Spicy foods
Do you eat chili peppers? Well, you can rethink your decision of doing so, as they contain capsaicin that can irritate the esophagus, and aggravate any heartburn symptoms.
3. Alcohol
All forms of alcohol tend to have a negative impact on one’s health. It can take a toll on each and every part of the body, along with the digestive system. Moreover, Dr Patankar says, “It can be problematic for those who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Consumption of alcohol can inflame and irritate the stomach and impair the functioning of the esophageal sphincter. Alcohol can also cause heartburn.”
4. Carbonated beverages
Carbonated beverages like sodas and energy drinks are acidic and caffeinated, and can lead to acid reflux.
5. Chocolate
Dr Patankar says, “Chocolate leads to intestinal cells releasing serotonin, causing the esophageal sphincter to relax and allowing stomach acid to flow upwards.”
6. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are acidic in nature and can cause acidity problems.
7. Processed foods
Are you eating processed foods on a daily basis? If yes, you will have to give up on them. “It is a known fact that these foods can invite acidity. So, avoid ready-to-eat meals, cakes, biscuits, and tinned vegetables, says Dr Patankar.
8. Deep-fried foods
Are you a fan of deep-fried foods like french fries, bhajiyas, samosas, chips, or onion rings? They, too, can cause acidity.
9. Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are a common cause of acidity, because they increase acid production in your stomach. Lemons and sweet limes have the most citric acid!
