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.

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.