5 Summer Foods Most Likely to Trigger Heartburn — and What to Do About Them

Summer’s hot enough. You don’t need to fan the flames by dealing with heartburn after eating your favorite seasonal foods. Don’t let that fiery burn spoil the fun of backyard BBQs, poolside snacks, beach vacations, and festive treats. 

Knowing which foods are most likely to cause issues — and how to support your digestion afterward — can help you enjoy the season more comfortably.* Keep reading to learn how to grill more and regret less all summer long. 

1. Spicy BBQ Favorites

From buffalo wings to spicy ribs and hot links, BBQ season turns up the heat. Spicy foods may irritate the digestive tract and contribute to occasional heartburn, especially when you go back for seconds or eat late at night.

How to Deal:

• Start with smaller portions
• Balance spicy foods with lighter sides
• Avoid lying down immediately after eating 

2. Greasy Burgers and Fried Foods

Burgers on the grill and fried chicken at picnics are summer staples — but high-fat foods can slow digestion and leave you feeling overly full and uncomfortable.

Heavy meals are also one of the most common triggers for occasional heartburn because they can increase pressure on the stomach.*

How to Deal:

• Eat slowly and avoid overeating
• Pair heavier foods with fresh vegetables or fruit
• Consider skipping the second helping

3. Citrus Cocktails and Lemonade

Summer drinks like margaritas, lemonade, citrus cocktails, and hard seltzers feel refreshing going down, but acidic beverages can sometimes trigger digestive discomfort.*

Alcohol may also relax the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the likelihood of occasional heartburn.*

How to Deal:

• Alternate cocktails with water
• Limit highly acidic mixers
• Sip drinks slowly instead of quickly

Staying hydrated throughout the day can also support smoother digestion overall.*

4. Summer-Fresh Vegetables 

Yes, even healthy foods can trigger heartburn now and again – and some of summer’s freshest produce can be the culprits. Tomatoes, onions, and bell peppers are known heartburn triggers, especially when eaten raw or in large quantities.* 

How to Deal:

• Choose cooked over raw vegetables 
• Swap onions for milder leeks, green onions, or chives
• Prep veggies ahead of time with a vinaigrette or other acid-based dressing or sauce, to help break them down 

5. Fried Fair Foods

What’s a summer festival without indulgent favorites like funnel cakes, fried Oreos, corn dogs, or fried pickles? While fun to eat, these deep-fried foods can sit heavy in the stomach, making occasional heartburn more likely.*

Large portions and eating quickly while walking around outdoors can make digestive discomfort even worse.

How to Deal:

• Split fried treats with friends or family
• Eat slowly and savor a few bites instead of overindulging
• Sit to eat when you can, then get back to walking as soon as you’re done 

Don’t Let Heartburn Steal Summer’s Best Moments 

Summer celebrations should leave you with great memories — not digestive discomfort. By recognizing common triggers and making a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy your favorite seasonal foods more comfortably.

Whether you’re navigating BBQ season, frozen treats, or patio cocktails, digestive support from Enzymedica can help you feel ready for every summer gathering.

Keep Heartburn Soothe on hand for every summer grilling party, to put out the fire fast.* Away from home? Tuck a few chewables into your bag to stay comfy after any culinary adventure.* Hosting? Go ahead and put the bottle of Heartburn Soothe Liquid on the buffet table, so folks can help themselves if they feel the fire rising.*