What fruits cause acid reflux?

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. This can cause symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. Certain foods and drinks can make acid reflux worse, including some fruits.

What is Acid Reflux?

When we eat, food travels down the esophagus into the stomach. At the bottom of the esophagus is a ring of muscle known as the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). The LES acts as a valve that opens to allow food into the stomach and then closes to prevent stomach acid from flowing back up.

In people with acid reflux, the LES relaxes too frequently or does not close tightly enough. This allows acidic stomach contents to reflux (flow backwards) into the esophagus. Exposure to stomach acid can damage the tissue lining the esophagus over time and cause uncomfortable symptoms.

Symptoms of Acid Reflux

Common symptoms of acid reflux include:

• Heartburn – a burning pain or discomfort behind the breastbone
• Regurgitation – a sour or bitter-tasting acid backing up into the throat or mouth
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Feeling like there’s a lump in the throat
• Chronic cough or sore throat
• Tooth erosion

Symptoms tend to worsen when lying down or bending over, which allows more stomach acid to reflux up.

What Causes Acid Reflux?

There are several factors that can contribute to acid reflux:

• Lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction – Abnormalities in the LES muscles cause it to relax too frequently or not close tightly.
• Hiatal hernia – Part of the stomach pushes up through the diaphragm muscle into the chest cavity.
• Pregnancy – Hormonal changes and increased pressure from the growing fetus can promote reflux.
• Obesity – Increased pressure from extra weight can cause the LES to relax.
• Medications – Drugs like antihistamines, calcium channel blockers, antidepressants, and pain medications can interfere with LES function.
• Smoking – Can weaken the LES and stimulate acid production.
• Diet – Fatty, spicy, acidic, and processed foods can worsen reflux.

Fruits and Acid Reflux

Certain fruits are more likely to worsen acid reflux symptoms due to their acidity, citric acid content, or tendency to relax the LES. Fruits to avoid for acid reflux include:

1. Citrus Fruits

Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes, and pineapples are high in acid content. The citric acid present in citrus can irritate the esophageal lining and provoke heartburn.

2. Tomatoes

Although tomatoes are technically a vegetable, they are often categorized as a fruit. Raw tomatoes and tomato-based products like ketchup, marinara sauce, and salsa are acidic and can trigger acid reflux.

3. Berries

Strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, and raspberries contain citric and malic acid. These acids can stimulate stomach acid production and relax the LES, causing reflux symptoms.

4. Melons

Watermelon, cantaloupe, and honeydew are lower in acid but still considered common reflux triggers. Some theories suggest the high fructose content may be responsible.

5. Dried Fruits

Raisins, prunes, cranberries, and apricots are dried fruits that tend to be particularly acidic. They are high in fructose and preservatives that can aggravate reflux.

6. Bananas

Bananas are often touted as a low-acid fruit choice, but some acid reflux sufferers find they actually trigger symptoms. Green or unripe bananas contain more starch and may be better tolerated.

Fruits That May Be Better Tolerated

While no fruits are universally safe for acid reflux, some tend to cause fewer issues and may be better tolerated. These include:

• Apples
• Pears
• Ripe bananas
• Papaya
• Mango
• Melon (but monitor for symptoms)

Some find that cooked or baked fruits like apple sauce, pear sauce, or baked apples may be easier to digest.

Tips for Managing Acid Reflux with Fruit

If you enjoy fruit but need to manage acid reflux, here are some tips that may help prevent symptoms:

• Avoid citrus fruits and opt for low-acid choices like melons, apples, and bananas.
• Have fruits alone between meals rather than with other foods.
• Avoid drinking fruit juices high in citric acid.
• Cook fruits and choose baked, stewed, or frozen versions.
• Cut acidic fruits like berries into small pieces to minimize exposure.
• Rinse your mouth after eating acidic fruits.
• Avoid lying down for 2-3 hours after eating fruit.
• Take medications to reduce stomach acid if fruits still cause symptoms.

The Bottom Line

Fruits play an important role in a healthy diet, but some choices may need to be avoided or limited if you experience frequent acid reflux symptoms. Pay attention to your individual tolerance and follow the measures above as needed to help enjoy fruit without discomfort.

Speak to your doctor if lifestyle changes don’t provide sufficient relief. Additional medication or procedures may be recommended depending on the severity of your reflux.

Fruits to Avoid	Fruits to Limit	Better Fruit Choices
Oranges	Bananas	Apples
Grapefruit	Watermelon	Pears
Lemons	Honeydew	Papaya
Limes	Cantaloupe	Mangos
Pineapple	Strawberries	Ripe bananas
Tomatoes	Blueberries	Cooked fruits
Berries	Raspberries	Frozen fruits
Dried fruits

This summarizes some of the best and worst fruit choices for managing acid reflux. Focus on low-acid, non-citrus fruits and avoid citrus, tomato, and dried fruit varieties if you experience reflux.