Patrick Oconnell
Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common chronic digestive condition. It occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and/or throat, known as heartburn. Certain foods are known to trigger acid reflux, including chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, peppermint, tomatoes, spicy foods, and fried foods. High-fat foods can also cause acid reflux by delaying digestion and increasing pressure on the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that normally keeps the top of the stomach closed. Cheese is a high-fat food that can trigger acid reflux, and softer cheeses like feta and mozzarella may have a more significant effect than harder varieties like Parmesan and Swiss cheese.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Feta cheese cause acid reflux | Yes |
| Acid reflux | Occurs when digestive juices back up into the chest and/or throat and cause a burning sensation |
| Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) | A common yet chronic digestive condition in which the stomach's contents sometimes flow back up into the esophagus |
| GERD symptoms | Heartburn, regurgitation, dyspepsia |
| Risk factors for GERD | Eating certain foods such as chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, peppermint, tomato, spicy or fried foods; taking certain medicines, including aspirin and certain drugs for asthma, high blood pressure, allergies, depression, sleep disorders and pain |
| High-acid foods | Candy, chocolate, soda, fatty foods, cheese, tomatoes |
| Low-acid foods | Low-fat dairy or foods made with plant-based milk |
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What You'll Learn
Feta cheese is high in fat
Fatty foods, such as cheese, can delay digestion by sitting in the stomach for longer. This puts pressure on the LES and can lead to acid reflux. While all cheese varieties are high in fat, softer cheeses like feta and mozzarella have a more significant reflux effect than harder types such as Parmesan and Swiss cheese. Therefore, consuming high-fat cheeses like feta can increase the risk of acid reflux by putting pressure on the LES and delaying digestion.
Additionally, milk and dairy products, in general, are high in fat and can worsen heartburn, a common symptom of acid reflux. Cold dairy products, in particular, can numb and impair the function of the LES, making it easier for stomach acid to backwash into the oesophagus. This further increases the likelihood of experiencing acid reflux symptoms.
To manage acid reflux effectively, it is advisable to limit the consumption of high-fat foods, including fatty cheeses like feta. Opting for low-fat dairy options or plant-based alternatives can help reduce the risk of acid reflux and alleviate associated symptoms. However, it is important to note that while fat content is a contributing factor, other dietary triggers, such as spicy foods, chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, and peppermint, can also play a role in triggering acid reflux.
In summary, feta cheese's high-fat content can contribute to acid reflux by delaying digestion and increasing pressure on the LES. However, individual tolerance and the presence of other dietary triggers also influence the occurrence of acid reflux. For those prone to acid reflux, moderating feta cheese intake and opting for lower-fat alternatives may be beneficial in managing their condition effectively.
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Feta is softer cheese, which is worse for reflux
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common yet chronic digestive condition. It occurs when stomach acid reaches the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and/or throat. This is often referred to as heartburn. Acid reflux can be caused by certain foods, including chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, peppermint, tomatoes, and spicy or fried foods. Fatty foods can also cause acid reflux, as they relax the valves that connect the stomach and oesophagus, allowing stomach contents to flow back up.
Cheese is a fatty food that can trigger acid reflux. While hard cheeses such as Parmesan and Swiss have less of a reflux effect, softer cheeses like feta are more likely to cause issues. This is because soft cheeses are high in fat, which can delay digestion and put pressure on the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES). The LES is a ring of muscle that normally keeps the top of the stomach closed, only opening when you are swallowing. However, when fatty foods like feta cheese relax the LES, it can malfunction and allow stomach acid to escape back into the oesophagus, leading to acid reflux.
Feta cheese, in particular, has a high-fat content, which can aggravate acid reflux symptoms. This is because fat takes longer to digest, putting pressure on the LES and allowing acid to escape back up the oesophagus. Additionally, cold dairy products can numb and inhibit the function of the LES, making it easier for stomach acid to backwash into the oesophagus.
For those prone to acid reflux, it is recommended to stick to low-fat dairy options or plant-based alternatives. While feta cheese is not the only culprit when it comes to reflux, its soft and fatty composition makes it more likely to cause issues. Other high-fat cheeses to avoid include Gouda, Parmesan, cream cheese, Stilton, and cheddar. Opting for reduced-fat varieties, such as cottage cheese or ricotta, can help minimise the risk of acid reflux.
In conclusion, feta is a softer cheese that is higher in fat and can aggravate acid reflux symptoms. The fat content delays digestion and puts pressure on the LES, allowing stomach acid to escape back into the oesophagus. While enjoying feta in moderation may be acceptable, those prone to reflux should consider lower-fat alternatives to minimise their risk of experiencing uncomfortable symptoms.
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Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid reaches the oesophagus
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common yet chronic digestive condition. It occurs when stomach acid reaches the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and/or throat. This happens when the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle connecting the oesophagus and stomach, malfunctions. Normally, the LES opens to allow food to pass into the stomach and then closes tightly to prevent stomach acid from escaping back into the oesophagus. However, if the LES relaxes or opens when it shouldn't, stomach contents can flow back up, leading to acid reflux.
Certain foods and drinks can increase the likelihood of acid reflux. These include spicy foods, chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, peppermint, tomatoes, and fried or fatty foods. Alcohol, soda, caffeine, and certain medications can also impair the function of the LES, making reflux more likely.
Cheese, in particular, can be a trigger for acid reflux due to its high-fat content. Fatty foods can delay digestion by sitting in the stomach, putting pressure on the LES and allowing acid to escape back into the oesophagus. Soft cheeses like feta and mozzarella are more likely to cause reflux than harder varieties like Parmesan or Swiss cheese, which have lower fat content.
In addition to dietary triggers, other factors can contribute to acid reflux. For example, bending over or lifting heavy objects can increase pressure on the stomach, weakening the LES and causing reflux. Lying down, especially on the back, can have a similar effect due to the increased pressure on the stomach. During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the growing fetus can also put pressure on the stomach, leading to acid reflux.
While acid reflux is a common condition, it can cause discomfort and impact quality of life. Symptoms can include heartburn, regurgitation, dyspepsia, and, in the case of silent reflux, sore throat, chronic cough, and difficulty swallowing. To manage acid reflux, it is essential to identify and avoid triggers and maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
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Dairy products can make heartburn worse
Dairy products, which are high in fat, can aggravate heartburn symptoms and make them worse. This is because fatty foods can delay digestion by sitting in the stomach for longer. This puts pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which normally keeps the top of the stomach closed, allowing stomach acid to backwash up into the oesophagus.
Cheese, a dairy product, is high in fat. Softer cheeses such as feta, mozzarella, gouda, parmesan, cream cheese, stilton, and cheddar are high in fat. However, cottage cheese, ricotta, and other cheeses have reduced fat. If you are prone to heartburn, it is best to avoid high-fat cheeses and opt for low-fat alternatives.
Other foods that can trigger acid reflux include spicy foods, chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, peppermint, tomatoes, and fried foods. Alcohol, soda, caffeine, and candy can also aggravate acid reflux symptoms. This is due to their high acidity, carbonation, or relaxant effects on the LES.
To prevent acid reflux, it is recommended to avoid high-acid and high-fat foods, as well as eating dinner at least three hours before bed. If you must include dairy in your diet, opt for low-fat dairy products or plant-based alternatives.
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Acid reflux can be caused by a weak lower oesophageal sphincter
Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common yet chronic digestive condition. It occurs when stomach acid reaches the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and/or throat. This is often due to a malfunctioning of the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle that connects the oesophagus and stomach. Normally, the LES opens to allow food to pass into the stomach and then closes tightly to prevent stomach acid from escaping back into the oesophagus.
However, if the LES is weak or damaged, it may fail to close properly, allowing stomach acid to flow back up into the oesophagus. This can be caused by various factors, including certain foods, drinks, and lifestyle habits. For example, consuming fatty foods, such as cheese, can delay digestion and put pressure on the LES, potentially triggering acid reflux. Feta cheese, being a soft cheese, is more likely to cause reflux compared to harder varieties with less fat content.
Other foods that can trigger acid reflux include spicy dishes, chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, peppermint, tomatoes, and fried foods. Alcohol, soda, caffeine, and certain medications can also increase the risk of acid reflux by relaxing the LES or increasing stomach pressure. Additionally, bending over, lifting heavy objects, or lying down, especially on your back, can exert pressure on the stomach, potentially forcing its contents back up through a weak LES.
During pregnancy, hormonal changes and the growing fetus can also contribute to a weaker LES, making pregnant individuals more susceptible to acid reflux. The weakening of the LES can be temporary or chronic, and it is essential to manage the condition effectively to prevent discomfort and potential damage to the oesophageal lining. Treatment options may include dietary and lifestyle modifications, medication, or surgical intervention in more severe cases.
In summary, acid reflux can indeed be caused by a weak lower oesophageal sphincter, often influenced by dietary and lifestyle choices. While feta cheese may not be the primary trigger for everyone, its high-fat content can relax the LES and contribute to acid reflux symptoms, particularly in individuals who are prone to GERD.
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Frequently asked questions
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid reaches the oesophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and/or throat. This is often experienced as heartburn.
Feta cheese is a soft cheese that is high in fat. High-fat foods can cause acid reflux by delaying digestion and putting pressure on the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES). Therefore, feta cheese can cause acid reflux, with softer cheeses like feta and mozzarella having more of a reflux effect than harder varieties like Parmesan and Swiss cheese.
In addition to high-fat foods, other foods that can cause acid reflux include spicy foods, chocolate, citrus fruits, onions, peppermint, tomatoes, and fried foods. Caffeinated and carbonated drinks can also aggravate acid reflux symptoms.
To prevent acid reflux, it is recommended to avoid high-fat and high-acid foods, as well as caffeinated and carbonated drinks. Eating dinner earlier in the evening, at least three hours before bed, may also help reduce the occurrence of acid reflux.
