Several studies found an association between drinking carbonated beverages and an increased risk of GERD, according to a 2021 review . The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) also recommends that people avoid carbonated drinks to reduce acid reflux and GERD.
Best Drinks for GERD Patients
According to the pH level, gin, tequila, and non-grain vodkas are the lowest acidity options; choosing drinks made with these alcohols will be best on your stomach.
Alcohol can make the stomach produce more acid. It can also make the tissues more sensitive to acid, which can lead to heartburn.
Tonic water is not considered acidic, because it has a pH level of 6.0. A pH scale is used to determine the acidity or alkalinity of a solution with 100% pure water in the middle. Acid has a stronger acid if its pH is lower.
Water. Most notably, mineral water with an alkaline pH – this may reduce the acidity of the stomach and help to denature the enzyme pepsin. It's this digestive enzyme that is thought to be responsible for much of the damage associated with reflux.
For some people, drinking too much sparkling water can induce gas and bloating, making them uncomfortable. Patients with acid reflux, gastroesophgeal reflux disease (GERD), or gas who are drinking mostly carbonated water should switch to non-carbonated beverages, like plain water.
Food and beverages with strong acidity can trigger your symptoms, so it would be best to avoid drinks like ciders, white wines, and citrus cocktails. These can be substituted for spirits like gin and tequila which have low acidity. Flavors and ingredients can also impact your acid reflux.
Take antacids.
Antacids can be taken while drinking alcohol. Look for over-the-counter products like TUMS Chewy Bites to quickly relieve heartburn symptoms and acid indigestion. Use as directed.
Wine is also a good choice, as it is low in alcohol and sugar. However, distilled spirits like vodka and whiskey are the best choices to avoid problems with acid reflux. They are low in calories and carbs and don't contain any sugar.
Alcohol consumption may increase symptoms of GERD and cause damage to the esophageal mucosa. In many cases, symptoms of GERD can be controlled after withdrawl of alcoholic beverages. So patients with symptomatic GERD are frequently recommended to avoid alcohol consumption or to consume moderate amount of alcohol.
Chamomile tea has anti-inflammatory properties and can combat digestive issues, such as an upset stomach. These properties make it an effective treatment for acid reflux. Additionally, the soothing effect of Chamomile tea helps reduce stress, which is usually a trigger for indigestion and acid reflux, and even GERD.
Is yogurt a good choice? Yogurt that is not too sour is also excellent for acid reflux, because of the probiotics that help normalize bowel function. Yogurt also provides protein, and soothes stomach discomfort, often providing a cooling sensation.
Yes, GERD can be cured. The most common treatment for Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease is medication, which can help to decrease the amount of acid in your stomach. If lifestyle changes don't help, your doctor may also recommend surgery.
If you are an adult with GERD, it will not go away on its own, but there are treatments that can help you manage it, including: Over-the-counter medications, such as antacids. Prescription medications, such as proton pump inhibitors. Surgery, including a laparoscopic procedure called the LINX procedure.
Bananas for stomach acid are considered safe because they have alkaline (alkaline) properties. In addition, this fruit is also considered to help balance the acid in the stomach so that symptoms of acid reflux or GERD can be prevented.
Oatmeal has been a whole-grain breakfast favorite for generations. It is a good source of fiber, so it keeps you feeling full and promotes regularity. Oats also absorb stomach acid and reduce symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). For something sweet, top your oatmeal with bananas, apples or pears.
When you're laying down, you lose the effect of gravity on the food traveling through your digestive system. Laying down also prevents gravity from keeping bile and acids from traveling up into the esophagus, causing heartburn. Because of this, many people find their heartburn is worse at night.