Spicy food and stress cause stomach ulcers. Spicy food and stress may aggravate ulcer symptoms in some people, but they do not cause ulcers. Most H. pylori-related ulcers can be cured with antibiotics. Smoking a cigarette helps relieve heartburn. Cigarette smoking actually contributes to heartburn.
Many people say it feels like food is coming back into the mouth leaving an acid or bitter taste.
Heartburn occurs when the LES relaxes, allowing the acidic contents of the stomach to splash back into the esophagus. Cigarette smoking causes the LES to relax. Other foods and beverages that can weaken the LES include chocolate, fatty foods, coffee, and alcoholic beverages. Foods and citrus fruits and juices, tomato products, and pepper should also be avoided. Regularity means a bowel movement every day.