Could vinegar make acid reflux worse?

Vinegar can make acid reflux worse, notes WebMD. Vinegar is an acidic ingredient, which can cause heartburn, especially when eaten alone or on an empty stomach. While people don't usually consume vinegar on its own, they use it to make many meals and salad dressings.

Other acidic foods include tomatoes, tomato products and citrus fruits, says WebMD. Citrus fruits include grapefruits, oranges and lemons. Beverage options that may also make acid reflux worse are alcoholic beverages, caffeinated tea, colas, carbonated drinks and coffee. Acid reflux occurs when acid from the stomach moves up to the esophagus. Symptoms include bloating, burping, nausea and chronic sore throat.