Foods commonly known to be heartburn triggers cause the esophageal sphincter to relax and delay the digestive process.

The worst culprits being foods that are rich in fat, salt or spice such as:

• Pizza
• Cheese
• Fast food
• Fried food
• Fatty meats such as bacon and sausage
• Potato chips and other processed snacks
• Chili powder and pepper (white, black, cayenne)

Other foods that can cause the same problem include:

• Tomato-based sauces
• Citrus fruits
• Chocolate
• Peppermint
• Carbonated beverages