3 Common Foods That May Give You Heartburn (And Why)
2. Mint
In my post that analyses whether coffee or tea is better for your health, I explain that tea provides you with countless benefits that increase your lifespan, prevent chronic illnesses such as heart disease and may even treat inflammation.
However, a study published in the Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics found that excessive quantities of spearmint can lead to heartburn – but not as you’d expect!
Unlike other foods on the list which relax the esophageal sphincter, spearmint might irritate the lining of the esophagus which brings the heartburn sensation.
Another 2014 study from the National Institutes of Health analyzed 500 subjects who consumed peppermint tea daily. Researchers found that drinking this beverage daily may double their risk of heartburn.
Does this mean you have to give up on this healthy habit for good? Absolutely not. It just means you should pay extra attention to how you’re feeling after drinking tea and perhaps give it up for a couple of days to check whether it really causes your heartburn.
3. Onions
They’re tasty, nutritious and bring a valuable boost in your immune system. Unfortunately, though, onions are also a common trigger for heartburn.
The main reason is that onions relax the esophageal sphincter which can cause acid reflux in a matter of hours or even sooner.
During a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, subjects were given one hamburger to eat every day (talk about a delicious study!). One group of participants had onions added to their hamburger while the second group ate an onion-free meal.
Turns out, those who had eaten a hamburger with onions suffered from considerably worse heartburn symptoms.
Onions are also rich in fermentable fiber – another nutrient renowned for increases the risk for heartburn and other digestive issues.
Of course, if you stick to decent amounts of onion consumed occasionally there should be no health problems.
 Looking for more useful ways to improve your nutrition? Our posts may help:
- What Happens in Your Body When You Eat Pasta?
- 5 Surprising Foods with More Protein Than an Egg
- Did You Know These 7 Foods Can Give You Gas?
How are you treating heartburn when it strikes? Share your tips and tricks in the comment section and we’ll drop a health tip in return!
