Healthy foods that can trigger heartburn

Certain foods that are generally considered healthy can trigger heartburn, a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. While many associate heartburn with greasy foods, several seemingly harmless items can exacerbate symptoms.

Mint is a notable trigger; although often used to soothe digestion, it can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, making acid reflux more likely. Chocolate is another culprit due to methylxanthine, a compound similar to caffeine that relaxes the same sphincter, combined with high fat and cocoa content that slows digestion.

Additionally, tomatoes, a staple of the Mediterranean diet, are highly acidic. They contain malic and citric acids that can irritate the esophageal lining and provoke symptoms.