If you suffer from acid reflux, you know how uncomfortable and painful it can be. Acid reflux happens when stomach acid moves up into the esophagus, causing symptoms like heartburn, a burning sensation in the chest, and regurgitation. While there are many medications available to help manage the condition, making changes to your diet—especially what you drink—can also help reduce symptoms. In this article, we will explore the best drinks to help soothe acid reflux, along with those you should avoid, and provide tips for managing the condition through hydration.

Best Drinks for Acid Reflux

When dealing with acid reflux, it’s important to choose drinks that won’t irritate your esophagus or trigger the production of more stomach acid. Here are some of the best options to consider.

1. Water

Water is one of the most helpful drinks for managing acid reflux. It helps neutralize stomach acids, dilutes any acid present in the stomach, and keeps your digestive system working properly. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can also help prevent the buildup of acid, reducing your chances of heartburn.

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How to Incorporate Water Into Your Routine:

  • Drink water between meals: Avoid drinking too much water with meals, as it can increase the pressure on your stomach, leading to reflux.
  • Sipping slowly: Take small sips throughout the day rather than chugging a large amount at once.

2. Herbal Teas

Herbal teas are soothing and can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Certain herbal teas have properties that promote digestion and alleviate inflammation in the digestive tract. Some good options include:

a. Ginger Tea

Ginger is well known for its ability to calm nausea and reduce inflammation. It helps in digesting food more efficiently and preventing stomach acid from flowing into the esophagus.

How to Make Ginger Tea:

  • Boil a few slices of fresh ginger in water for 5–10 minutes.
  • Strain and drink while warm for the best results.

b. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is known for its calming effects, which can help soothe the digestive system and reduce acid reflux symptoms.

How to Make Chamomile Tea:

  • Steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for 5–10 minutes.
  • Drink the tea before bed to help reduce nighttime acid reflux.

c. Licorice Tea

Licorice can help protect the lining of your stomach and esophagus, potentially reducing symptoms of acid reflux. However, it’s best to choose deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) to avoid any unwanted side effects.

How to Make Licorice Tea:

  • You can purchase DGL licorice tea bags or take DGL supplements as directed by your doctor.

Note: Avoid peppermint tea, as it can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and make acid reflux worse.

3. Plant-Based Milk

Dairy milk, especially full-fat milk, can sometimes worsen acid reflux symptoms due to its fat content. However, plant-based milks, such as almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk, are generally more gentle on the stomach and esophagus.

Benefits of Plant-Based Milks:

  • Almond Milk: Low in fat and alkaline, which can help neutralize stomach acid.
  • Oat Milk: Offers a smooth texture and is easy on the stomach.
  • Soy Milk: Provides a creamy consistency without the acidity found in cow’s milk.

4. Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory properties and may help soothe the esophagus. It has been shown to reduce the irritation caused by acid reflux, helping to calm the digestive system.

How to Drink Aloe Vera Juice:

  • Choose a product that is free from added sugars or artificial flavors.
  • Drink a small glass of aloe vera juice before meals, as this may help prevent symptoms of acid reflux.

Note: Ensure you are using aloe vera juice that is specifically labeled for internal use, as some products are intended for topical use only.

Drinks to Avoid with Acid Reflux

While certain drinks can help soothe your symptoms, others can make them worse. Here’s a list of drinks that are best avoided if you have acid reflux:

1. Carbonated Beverages

Carbonated drinks, such as sodas and sparkling waters, can increase the pressure in your stomach, which can lead to acid reflux. The bubbles in these drinks can cause bloating and contribute to stomach acid pushing up into the esophagus.

2. Caffeinated Beverages

Caffeine, found in coffee, tea, and energy drinks, can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscle that prevents stomach acid from moving into the esophagus. This can allow acid to escape into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

3. Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol can irritate the stomach lining and increase acid production, which can worsen acid reflux symptoms. It can also relax the lower esophageal sphincter, contributing to the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus.

4. Citrus Juices

Citrus juices, like orange juice and grapefruit juice, are highly acidic and can irritate the esophagus. If you have acid reflux, it’s best to avoid these acidic beverages, especially on an empty stomach.

5. Tomato-Based Drinks

Tomato juices and drinks made with tomatoes are also highly acidic and can worsen acid reflux symptoms. Avoid drinks like Bloody Marys or tomato juice if you’re prone to heartburn.

Tips for Managing Acid Reflux Through Beverages

To make the most of the drinks that can help with acid reflux, consider these tips:

1. Stay Hydrated with Water

The most important beverage to include in your routine is water. It helps dilute stomach acid and aids digestion. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can prevent acid reflux before it starts.

2. Choose Non-Acidic Drinks

Opt for drinks that are less likely to irritate your esophagus. Herbal teas and plant-based milk are great choices because they are gentle on the stomach and can help reduce symptoms.

3. Avoid Drinking Large Quantities of Liquid with Meals

Drinking large amounts of liquid during meals can increase pressure on your stomach, leading to reflux. Instead, sip small amounts of water or tea before or after meals, rather than with the meal itself.

4. Monitor Your Body’s Response

Pay attention to which drinks trigger your symptoms and adjust your choices accordingly. Everyone’s body is different, and it may take some trial and error to figure out what works best for you.

Myth or Reality: Does Drinking Milk Help with Acid Reflux?

Myth: Drinking milk can soothe acid reflux symptoms.

Reality: While milk may temporarily coat the stomach and provide relief, the fat content in whole milk can trigger the production of more stomach acid. It’s better to choose low-fat or plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk, for a more lasting solution.

FAQs

1. Can I drink coffee if I have acid reflux?

It’s best to limit or avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee, as caffeine can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to reflux.

2. Is herbal tea safe for acid reflux?

Yes, herbal teas like ginger, chamomile, and licorice can be soothing for acid reflux. Avoid peppermint tea, as it may relax the lower esophageal sphincter and make symptoms worse.

3. Can I drink water to help with acid reflux?

Yes, water is one of the best drinks for acid reflux. It helps dilute stomach acids and promotes digestion without causing irritation.

4. What drinks should I avoid with acid reflux?

Avoid carbonated beverages, caffeinated drinks, alcohol, citrus juices, and tomato-based drinks, as they can worsen acid reflux symptoms.

5. Can aloe vera juice help with acid reflux?

Yes, aloe vera juice can help soothe the esophagus and reduce irritation caused by acid reflux. Be sure to choose aloe vera juice that is safe for internal use.

Conclusion

Managing acid reflux doesn’t just involve watching what you eat—it also involves paying attention to what you drink. Water, herbal teas, plant-based milks, and aloe vera juice can help soothe your digestive system and prevent acid reflux. On the other hand, carbonated drinks, caffeine, alcohol, citrus, and tomato-based drinks should be avoided, as they can exacerbate symptoms. By making thoughtful drink choices and following the tips in this article, you can better manage acid reflux and improve your overall well-being.