Foods usually do not cause heartburn, but they can aggravate
your condition and cause symptoms. Certain foods can cause
symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, which
allows digestive juices to splash up into the esophagus, thus
irritating the esophagus. Everyone reacts to foods differently,
so keep track of the foods you eat and your symptoms. Share this
information with your doctor. The foods that most commonly cause
symptoms of heartburn include: Acidic foods, such as: - Citrus
foods: oranges, grapefruits, and their juices - Tomatoes and
tomato products Fatty or greasy foods - Spicy foods -
Caffeinated beverages - Some herbal products (eg, peppermint
tea) Be careful not to overeat and do not lie down right after
eating. Both of these actions can cause heartburn symptoms. Give
your body time to digest. Also, do not eat within 2-3 hours of
going to sleep.. Other healthy lifestyle measures, such as
losing weight if you are overweight and quitting smoking can
help.