Different foods may cause heartburn for different reasons. Some cause the stomach to produce extra acid and some cause the muscle between the esophagus and the stomach to loosen, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus.
The leading foods that cause heartburn in some people are:
- Greasy & fatty foods: poutine, fries, chicken wings, pizza, burger
- Spicy foods: nachos, hot sauce
- Condiments: ketchup, mustard
- Carbonated drinks: pop
- Dairy: chocolate, heavy cheese, rich desserts, milk
- Certain fruits & veggies: juice, onions, peppers
- Tomato products: salsa, tomato sauce, tomatoes
- Plus: alcohol
Other causes like some medications, stress, certain health or medical conditions, smoking, weight, and age can also cause heartburn.