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Home » Ingredients » Dairy

Why Does Yogurt Give Me Heartburn?

shirinMedically Reviewed by Shirin Buta · Written by Rizza Joyce Mira, MD · Updated on April 30, 2023

Yogurt is a fermented milk product that is popular worldwide. It comes in many varieties, from drinking yogurt to Greek, and is great either on its own or mixed with fruit or muesli.

why does yogurt give me heartburn

Although yogurt is low in calories and highly nutritious, many people suffer from acid reflux and some report that yogurt triggers heartburn.

However, acid reflux resulting from eating yogurt is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Some tolerate yogurt well, and some are highly sensitive.

Table of Contents
  • Why Does Yogurt Cause Heartburn?
  • Is Yogurt Acidic?
  • How Does Yogurt Cause Heartburn?
  • Is Yogurt Healthy?
  • Which Yogurt Is the Least Acidic?

Why Does Yogurt Cause Heartburn?

Although dairy products don't often aggravate acid reflux, yogurt high in fat or sugar may relax your upper digestive tract, resulting in heartburn.

Is Yogurt Acidic?

Yogurt is slightly acidic, with a pH of around 4.40-4.80. Although most studies show yogurt shouldn’t trigger heartburn, some people are very sensitive to acidic foods.

Some acid reflux and GERD sufferers are also sensitive to dairy products, so they should limit their yogurt intake or avoid it altogether.

High-fat yogurt is more likely to trigger your symptoms, as fat slows digestion, stimulating gastric acid production.

  • Is Greek Yogurt Acidic?

Choosing low-fat yogurt and adding alkaline-forming fruits, such as mangos, papayas, cranberries, plums, or sour cherries, may help neutralize yogurt's acidity.

How Does Yogurt Cause Heartburn?

Yogurt shouldn’t cause heartburn in most healthy people but can in those particularly sensitive to acidic foods.

Plain Greek Yogurt with Fresh Raspberries
Plain Greek Yogurt with Fresh Raspberries

The sugar and fat in some yogurts are difficult to digest, leading to an overproduction of gastric acid and heartburn.

Consuming too much high-fat yogurt may relax the muscles between your esophagus and stomach, allowing gastric acid to reflux up your esophagus.

  • Creme Fraiche vs. Yogurt

People who are lactose intolerant may also get heartburn from eating yogurt.

However, some people find that yogurt and other alkaline-forming dairy products help alleviate acid reflux symptoms, as they contain probiotics that contribute to a healthy gut biome.

Is Yogurt Healthy?

A serving of plain yogurt contains up to 30% of the recommended daily calcium intake, which supports healthy teeth and bones, aids nerve function and boosts your immune system.

  • Are Breakfast Cereals Acidic?

Plain yogurt is also an excellent source of phosphorus, which is essential for muscle recovery after a workout and helps prevent kidney stones and urinary tract issues.

The probiotics in yogurt improve intestinal health and alleviate the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. They can also help replenish good gut bacteria after a course of antibiotics.

  • Is Cheesecake Acidic?

Yogurt is rich in protein, building lean muscle mass and keeping you full longer after eating.

Which Yogurt Is the Least Acidic?

spoon of greek yogurt with raspberry

If yogurt sometimes gives you heartburn, try choosing low-fat varieties without artificial flavors. Greek yogurt may also be a better choice, as it has more protein and less sugar.

  • Why Does Oatmeal Give Me Heartburn?

Don't know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level

Related posts:

  1. Is Yogurt Good For Acid Reflux? Everything You Need To Know
  2. Is Greek Yogurt Acidic?
  3. What to Drink for Acid Reflux? Here's Everything You Need to Know
  4. Is Greek Yogurt High in Potassium?
  5. Are Gyros Healthy? Here’s Everything You Need To Know.
  6. Creme Fraiche vs. Yogurt

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shirin

Shirin is a registered Medical Laboratory Scientist who teaches Immunology and Serology subjects. In her free time, she writes health-related articles to help advocate the prevention of lifestyle and infectious diseases. When not teaching or writing, she loves to try new food and attempts to recreate them at home.

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  • Is Greek Yogurt High in Potassium?Is Greek Yogurt High in Potassium?

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