Foods that may help with heartburn

Heartburn happens when stomach contents move back into the food pipe and irritate its lining. Large meals, rich or fried food, chilli, chocolate, mint, caffeine, alcohol and fizzy drinks can trigger symptoms for some people. Others notice problems with tomatoes or citrus. A trigger is personal, so a food that suits one person may bother another. Recurrent heartburn can occur with acid reflux, gastritis, a hiatus hernia or a peptic ulcer; the symptom alone cannot identify the cause.

Eat slowly, choose modest portions and keep a record of foods followed by burning or sour taste. Lean protein, oats, rice, potatoes, vegetables and non-acidic fruit may be comfortable choices. Stay upright after eating and avoid lying down soon after an evening meal. Aim for a balanced pattern rather than a highly restrictive diet. If lifestyle measures are not enough, a clinician or pharmacist can advise whether acid reflux medication is appropriate and how to take it safely.

Arrange medical advice when heartburn is frequent, worsening, wakes you, causes trouble swallowing, or continues despite changes. Seek urgent care for severe chest pain, breathlessness, faintness, vomiting blood, black stools or sudden severe abdominal pain. These features can signal a problem beyond ordinary heartburn.

Ask whether your pattern fits acid reflux, which triggers matter most, whether medicine is suitable, and which warning signs should prompt urgent help.