Yes, peanut butter can cause acid reflux for some people because its high fat content can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) (the valve preventing acid backup) and slow digestion, but it's not a universal trigger, and some find natural, small portions fine, while others prefer alternatives like almond butter. Everyone's triggers differ, so monitor your body's reaction; if it causes symptoms, limit intake or try lower-fat versions.
Peanuts are higher in fat than some other nuts, which means they irritate the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a flap-like muscle at the end of your esophagus. Fatty foods can cause the LES to relax—but not in a good way. You need a healthy LES to seal off the lower esophagus and protect it from stomach acid.
Acid reflux-triggering foods to avoid:
Peanut butter is a popular spread known for its smooth texture and creamy flavor. However, for those with pancreatitis, peanut butter may trigger feelings of discomfort, abdominal pain, or flare-ups. When it comes to pancreatitis, experts recommend eating a low-fat diet.
Peanut allergy signs and symptoms can include:
Lifestyle and home remedies
Foods That Help Prevent Acid Reflux
Citrus fruits and tomatoes: Because they are acidic, citrus fruits and tomatoes increase the acidity of your stomach. Coffee and other caffeinated beverages: Caffeine relaxes the esophageal sphincter, which can increase acid reflux.
Core Principles of the 28-Day Reflux Prevention Program
Avoidance of Acidic and Trigger Foods: These include citrus, tomatoes, spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, fried foods, chocolate, and mint. Emphasis on Alkaline, Anti-inflammatory Foods: Leafy greens, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
Top 10 Side Effects of Peanut Butter
Whole Wheat Toast With Jam
While most people put a spread of butter underneath their jam, you may want to avoid the high-fat spreads. Choose a buttery spread that is low in fat if you want to avoid heartburn symptoms.
Instead, consider replacing it with low fat yogurt, or yogurt that is not too sour. This small dietary modification may help make acid reflux more manageable in some cases, due to its help in maintaining intestinal barrier integrity4.
Coffee and tea – Caffeinated beverages aggravate acid reflux. Opt for teas without caffeine. Carbonated beverages – The bubbles expand in your stomach, creating more pressure and pain. Choose plain water or decaf iced tea.
When you have frequent GERD symptoms, like heartburn, eating high-fat dairy products like cheese can aggravate your symptoms. Furthermore, cold dairy products like ice cream can actually numb and inhibit the lower esophageal sphincter's function.
stress and anxiety. an increase in some types of hormones, such as progesterone and oestrogen. some medicines, such as anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen) a hiatus hernia – when part of your stomach moves up into your chest.
The most common surgical procedure for GERD is called fundoplication, which involves wrapping the top of the stomach around the lower esophagus to strengthen the LES and prevent acid reflux. This procedure can provide long-lasting relief from GERD symptoms for many patients.
Indigestion, also called heartburn or acid reflux, is common in pregnancy. It can be caused by hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing against your stomach. You can help ease indigestion and heartburn by making changes to your diet and lifestyle, and there are medicines that are safe to take in pregnancy.
Having acid reflux doesn't necessarily mean you have a medical condition. GERD, on the other hand, is a chronic medical condition. This means it is an ongoing disease with acid reflux causing symptoms two or more times a week.
The high yeast content in white bread can trigger the onset of acid reflux symptoms. However, you can switch to whole wheat bread which has minimal yeast and other benefits. This type of bread is good for digestion, low in calories, and keeps you full longer.
Acid reflux causes a burning sensation in the throat and chest. Drinking water, low fat milk, and herbal teas may help manage it. Alcohol, caffeinated drinks, and sodas may worsen symptoms.
Low-impact exercises like walking and yoga are best for people with regular acid reflux symptoms. Running, jumping, and other high-impact exercises may worsen symptoms. Time your meals, stay hydrated, and wear loose-fitting workout clothes to manage acid reflux while exercising.
GERD can put you at increased risk for serious health complications, including esophagitis, or inflammation of your esophagus. It can also increase your risk for a rare disorder called Barrett's esophagus.
Tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitriptyline, and doxepin (Silenor). Calcium channel blockers, statins, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and nitrates used for high blood pressure and heart disease. Narcotics, also called opioids, such as codeine, and those that have hydrocodone and acetaminophen.
Nuts are nutritious, but they can potentially contribute to heartburn, due to their high fat content. If you have GERD or frequent heartburn, eating nuts in moderation or choosing lower-fat nuts like cashews and pistachios may reduce your risk of triggering symptoms.