Frequent burning sensation after meals? Harvard gastroenterologist shares foods to avoid and eat for heartburn relief

Heartburn after coffee, spicy food or late-night snacks? Dr Saurabh Sethi shares foods that may worsen acid reflux and what may help soothe it.

Do you often feel a burning sensation in your chest after eating, especially after spicy meals, coffee or late-night snacks? Frequent heartburn could be linked to certain everyday foods that trigger acid reflux and irritate the digestive system. Dr Saurabh Sethi, Harvard and Stanford-trained gastroenterologist and hepatologist, shares in his May 20 Instagram post common foods and drinks that may worsen heartburn symptoms.

Foods to avoid for heartburn relief: Tips from a gastroenterologist.

Foods that can cause heartburn

Dr Sethi shared a list of common foods that can worsen heartburn symptoms, along with a few soothing options that may help provide relief naturally.

• Coffee

Your morning cup of coffee may be worsening acid reflux symptoms. Caffeine can relax the valve between the stomach and oesophagus, making it easier for acid to rise and cause a burning sensation.

• Alcohol

Alcohol is another major trigger for heartburn. It can increase stomach acid production and irritate the lining of the digestive tract, especially when consumed late at night or in excess.

• Tomatoes

Tomatoes and tomato-based foods are highly acidic, which can aggravate heartburn symptoms in people prone to acid reflux.

• Citrus fruits

Fruits like oranges, lemons and grapefruits contain high amounts of citric acid that may trigger irritation and worsen reflux symptoms.

• Chocolate

Chocolate contains caffeine and compounds that may relax the lower oesophageal sphincter, increasing the chances of acid reflux and heartburn.

• Spicy food

Spicy dishes can irritate the oesophagus and trigger burning sensations, especially in people with sensitive digestion or existing acid reflux issues.

Foods that may help soothe heartburn

• Oatmeal

Oatmeal is rich in fibre and may help absorb excess stomach acid, making it a gentle breakfast option for people dealing with reflux.

• Ginger

Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger may help calm the digestive system and reduce irritation linked to heartburn.

Ginger has high anti-inflammatory properties. (Shutterstock)

• Bananas

Bananas are naturally low in acid and may help coat the stomach lining, providing temporary relief from acidity.

• Aloe vera juice

Aloe vera juice is often considered soothing for the digestive tract and may help reduce inflammation caused by acid reflux.

• Chamomile tea

Chamomile tea may help relax the digestive system and reduce discomfort, especially when consumed after meals or before bedtime.

• Fennel

Fennel is traditionally used to support digestion and may help reduce bloating, acidity and reflux-related discomfort.

Simple to prevent heartburn

Apart from avoiding trigger foods, experts also recommend eating slowly, avoiding large meals, staying upright after eating and limiting late-night snacking. Wearing loose clothing and maintaining a healthy weight may also help reduce pressure on the stomach and lower the risk of acid reflux.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.

This report is based on user-generated content from social media. HT.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.