Advertisement
question

Can I eat spicy foods with acid reflux?

Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine
Univ. of Nev. School of Medicine, Family Medicine
answer
Several scientific studies looking at spicy food and acid reflux have been unable to prove that spices trigger changes in the sphincter pressure that leads to acid reflux from the stomach into the esophagus. If you are someone who suffers from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or acid reflux, there are foods that are known to increase discomfort, but spices are not proved to be among them.
Discovery Health
Discovery Health
answer

It depends on your digestive system. There is no scientific evidence that spicy foods automatically trigger acid reflux. In fact, one study shows that giving up spicy foods had no effect on these symptoms. Try eating less of a food that you think is troublesome before giving it up altogether.

Continue Learning about GERD

3 Ways to Squelch the Flames of Heart Disease
3 Ways to Squelch the Flames of Heart Disease
Reducing your risk of heart disease is as easy as switching up your diet. Find out from Carra Richling, from Ornish Lifestyle Medicine, how a plant-ba...
Read More
Acid reflux signs you shouldn’t ignore—plus ways to feel better
Acid reflux signs you shouldn’t ignore—plus ways to feel better
Acid reflux is the backward flow of stomach acid through the esophagus (the muscular tube that connects the throat and stomach). The most common sympt...
Read More
Can milk soothe acid reflux?
A glass of milk before bedtime is a common home remedy for acid reflux, but it actually can make the...
More Answers
What foods are the worst triggers for acid reflux?
Spicy and fried foods, coffee, soda, alcohol and tomatoes are among the foods that are off-limits fo...
More Answers

Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.