Why Acidic Beverages Might Actually Aggravate Acid Indigestion

Contrary to popular belief, many acidic beverages can exacerbate acid indigestion or GERD (Gastroesophageal reflux disease) rather than ease it. This article aims to clarify why acidic drinks might trigger your acid indigestion and provides healthier alternatives for those experiencing similar symptoms.

The Misconception: Acidic Beverages and Acid Indigestion

Your symptoms might be misdiagnosed, as it’s often believed that acidic beverages offer relief. However, the opposite can be true. Beverages such as coffee, colas, and acidic juices are known to increase the risk of GERD symptoms. This is particularly important to understand if you frequently indulge in these drinks and notice your acid indigestion worsening.

Why Should You Avoid Acidic Beverages?

Acidic beverages can trigger acid reflux by irritating the esophagus and causing a weakening of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). This relaxation allows stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, aggravating symptoms. To reduce acid indigestion, these beverages should be avoided or consumed in moderation.

What Can You Drink Instead?

Here are some beverages that can help reduce acid indigestion and soothe your stomach:

Herbal Tea

Several herbal teas can be beneficial for digestion and can help alleviate symptoms such as gas and nausea. However, some herbs might not be suitable for everyone. Here are a few options:

Chamomile: Known for its calming effects on the digestive system, chamomile can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Licorice: Licorice helps thicken the mucus coating of the esophageal lining, protecting it from stomach acid. It’s important to note that some people might be allergic to licorice, so use with caution. Slippery Elm: Slippery elm has a mucilaginous property that soothes the esophagus and stomach lining, helping to reduce acid reflux symptoms.

To prepare herbal tea, use one teaspoon of herb per cup of hot water. Steep the herbs for 5 to 10 minutes for leaves and flowers and 10 to 20 minutes for roots. Drink two to four cups per day for best results.

Low-Fat or Skim Milk

If you still prefer dairy products, lower-fat or skim milk can be a better option than full-fat milk. Full-fat milk can contain significant amounts of fat, which can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, leading to acid reflux symptoms. CookingLifestyle suggests choosing the lowest fat content available to minimize irritation.

Plant-Based Milk

For those who are lactose intolerant or experience an increase in acid reflux symptoms from dairy, plant-based milks such as:

Soy Milk: Soy milk contains less fat than most dairy products, making it a safer choice for individuals with GERD. Almond Milk: Almond milk has an alkaline composition, which helps neutralize stomach acidity and relieve acid reflux symptoms. Cashew Milk: Another plant-based option, cashew milk is gentle on the digestive system and can be beneficial for those with acid indigestion.

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Consult Your Doctor Before Trying Herbal Remedies

While herbal teas and plant-based milk can be beneficial, some herbs can interfere with certain prescription medications. Always consult your healthcare provider before trying any herbal remedy to ensure it’s safe for your individual health condition.

Conclusion

Avoiding acidic beverages can be a crucial step in managing acid indigestion and GERD. Instead, opt for herbal teas, low-fat milk, or plant-based milk as soothing alternatives. By making these simple changes, you can potentially reduce your acid indigestion symptoms and enjoy better digestive health.

If you have any further questions or need personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional.