Citrus Fruits and Spices
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemon, lime, and grapefruits are high in citric acid, which can worsen GERD symptoms. An increase in stomach acids relaxes the sphincter, which is the muscle that separates the esophagus and stomach. When the esophageal muscles are relaxed, gastric acid can backflow at any time.
Spicy foods are common triggers of AR. Adding spices to your food like black pepper, garlic, and onions can worsen symptoms of GERD. Eating spicy foods naturally creates a mild burning sensation in the chest, so it is best to avoid spices if you are prone to heartburn.
Consuming spicy foods can further irritate the food pipe lining (esophagus) and worsen symptoms of heartburn.