UK searches for heartburn-related symptoms are up 300% this year. Are a new wave of diet and medication side effects fuelling this increase?

New search data shows heartburn is more than just a common complaint. It’s becoming a growing health concern in the UK and globally. Food Hygiene Certificate expert and former chef Mark McShane highlights a critical concern. He notes that modern diets and rising weight loss jab usage contribute to this issue. Additionally, age-related digestive changes are creating a “perfect recipe” for acid reflux.

“The days of blaming just spicy curry are over,” says McShane. “We’re seeing a much broader mix of culprits – from high-fat snack culture to the side effects of popular new weight loss drugs. The problem is compounding with age, too.”

Search Data Confirms the Rise

• 6.2 million global searches in the past month – up 4% year-on-year (Glimpse, July 2025)
• 370,000 UK searches – a 300% annual increase
• Consistent spikes appear each winter, particularly during festive periods

Common Causes – and What’s New in 2025

1. Ageing gut function – As people age, the muscle at the base of the oesophagus weakens. This weakening makes it easier for acid to escape. Adults over 40 are more likely to experience regular symptoms.
   
2. Weight loss jabs (GLP-1 medications) – Drugs like semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) delay stomach emptying. This increases pressure and the chance of acid reflux.
   
3. Modern eating habits – Rushing meals increases acid build-up. Eating late contributes to acid build-up. Skipping food leads to binging, which increases acid build-up. Lying down after eating also increases acid build-up.
   
4. Ultra-processed diets – Takeaways, fizzy drinks and snack foods packed with fat and additives increase acid levels.
   
5. Low movement, high stress – Poor posture and stress slow digestion and increase heartburn frequency.
   

Foods That Trigger Heartburn

McShane’s top offenders include:

• Fried and fatty foods – Chips, takeaways, creamy sauces
• Caffeine – Coffee, energy drinks and some teas
• Tomato-based sauces – Pasta, pizza, tinned soup
• Chocolate – High in fat and mild stimulants
• Alcohol – Particularly red wine, prosecco and spirits
• Citrus fruits and juices – Especially oranges, lemons, grapefruits
• Peppermint – Often mistaken as soothing, but relaxes the stomach valve
• Carbonated drinks – Add pressure to the stomach lining, forcing acid upward

Why It’s Worse Now

“The idea that heartburn only affects older people is outdated,” McShane says. “Between weight loss medications and energy drinks, younger adults are increasingly affected too—often with no clue what’s causing it.”

• UK evening meal times remain late (often after 8pm)
• Fibre intake remains below NHS-recommended levels in most age groups
• Fizzy drinks and overuse of antacids can actually worsen symptoms over time

How to Reduce Risk

• Eat smaller portions more regularly
• Don’t lie down after meals – stay upright for at least two hours
• Reduce intake of known triggers and increase fibre-rich foods like oats and greens
• Cut down on caffeine, sugar, alcohol and ultra-processed snacks
• Support digestion with herbal teas like ginger or chamomile.