Coffee
Coffee is another drink that can stimulate stomach acid production. It is acidic, which may lead to irritation and worsening gastritis symptoms in some individuals. Also, the caffeine in coffee, like alcohol, can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing heartburn and discomfort.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains substances like theobromine and caffeine, which can trigger the production of stomach acid and relax the esophageal sphincter. These compounds may prompt symptoms like acid reflux or heartburn in individuals with gastritis. Additionally, chocolate contains fats that can be harder to digest, potentially causing discomfort and aggravating existing gastric issues.
Moreover, certain types of chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contain higher amounts of cocoa, which might be more stimulating to the stomach due to its caffeine content. The combination of caffeine and other compounds in chocolate can disrupt the digestive process, leading to irritation and discomfort for individuals with gastritis.