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Nuts, including cashews, are high in fats, which slow down the emptying stomach.
Although not a major cause, nuts, such as cashews, can trigger heartburn in some individuals.
- Nuts, including cashews, are high in fats, which slow down the emptying stomach.
- This means that they can cause a distended stomach, which can exert pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter or LES.
- The LES is a muscular ring-like structure present at the lower end of the esophagus at its junction with the stomach that prevents reflux of the acidic stomach contents into the esophagus.
When gastric emptying is slowed, as occurs with fatty foods, the acidic stomach contents can pass back into the esophagus causing heartburn. This may specifically be seen when consuming cashew and other fatty foods in excess.
Some people may have tree-nut allergies including cashew allergies. They may develop symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and indigestion when consuming cashews.
Which foods cause heartburn
Heartburn is a feeling of discomfort or burning pain felt in the chest.
- It is typically felt in the center of the chest right behind the breastbone or sternum.
- The burning sensation is generally felt in the lower chest although it may travel upward as well.
Heartburn usually occurs after eating spicy or fatty foods or when a person lies down or sleeps right after eating a meal.
French fries, fried chicken, bacon, beef, high-fat steak, onion rings, pizza, chips
Orange, grapefruit, tomato
Tea, coffee, alcohol, sodas, hot chocolate
Creamed or fried vegetables, onions, garlic
High-fat or whole milk, cream cheese, cottage cheese, cream, high-fat ice cream
Cashew, walnuts, hazelnuts
Chocolate, peppermint, pepper, hot sauces
Which foods are safe for heartburn
People who regularly experience heartburn may safely consume the following foods:
Oatmeal, brown rice, couscous, quinoa
Potato, broccoli, carrots, yam, zucchini, sweet potato, beet, asparagus, green beans, cauliflower, lettuce, cucumber
Banana, melon, papaya, grapes, berries
Most fruit juices except those containing citrus fruits, clear soups, herbal tea
Low-fat milk, cheese, and cream
Fish, skinless chicken, low-fat steak
Fennel, egg whites, tofu, low-fat mayo, thyme, rosemary, basil, cilantro
Tips to prevent and treat heartburn
How to avoid heartburn:
- Eat small meals
- Chew food well
- Do not lie down for about two to three hours of eating a meal
- Avoid fatty and spicy foods
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Avoid wearing tight clothes and belts
- Avoid beverages and foods that worsen symptoms
- Avoid sugary foods and beverages including sodas
Over-the-counter medications, such as antacids, may help manage heartburn symptoms. Certain home remedies, such as nonfat milk and lemon water, may also help relieve symptoms.
Heartburn can be a symptom of underlying conditions, such as peptic ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). It is also common in pregnant women and overweight individuals.
Occasional heartburn may occur in most people, however, if a person gets frequent heartburn or symptoms worsen over time, they should consider visiting healthcare professional.
