Common Foods That Could Be Worsening Your Acid Reflux

21. Breakfast Cereals: A Sneaky Source of Acidity

Breakfast cereals are often marketed as a convenient and healthy way to start the day, but many of them are packed with refined sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives that can increase stomach acid production and trigger acid reflux symptoms. Even some seemingly "healthy" options, like granola, can be problematic if they contain added sweeteners such as honey, maple syrup, or high-fructose corn syrup, which can irritate the digestive lining and worsen reflux. Additionally, cereals made from refined grains lack fiber and nutrients, meaning they digest quickly and cause blood sugar spikes, which can lead to an overproduction of stomach acid. Swap it with: A more reflux-friendly breakfast option is steel-cut oats, which are high in fiber and help absorb stomach acid rather than trigger its overproduction. Topping oatmeal with soothing ingredients like bananas, almonds, or flaxseeds can provide additional anti-inflammatory benefits. If you're craving crunch, try soaked chia seeds or unsweetened coconut flakes for texture without acidity.

22. Pineapple: The Tropical Trigger

Pineapple is a delicious and nutrient-dense fruit, known for its high vitamin C content and digestive enzyme bromelain, which helps break down proteins. However, its high acidity level makes it a risky choice for those prone to acid reflux. The natural citric and malic acids found in pineapple can cause a spike in stomach acid, which can then backflow into the esophagus, leading to a burning sensation. If you’ve ever eaten fresh pineapple on an empty stomach, you might have noticed a tingling or burning sensation on your tongue—this is due to its enzyme content and acidity, which can irritate mucous membranes. Swap it with: Papaya, another tropical fruit, is a fantastic alternative that provides digestive enzymes (papain) similar to bromelain but without the intense acidity. Papaya helps soothe the stomach lining and aids digestion without triggering reflux. Other low-acid fruit alternatives include ripe bananas, melons, and pears, all of which are gentle on digestion and can satisfy your craving for sweetness.