What Is Safe to Drink With Acid Reflux?

Acid reflex is a symptom of gastroesophageal reflex disease, or GERD. According to the Mayo Clinic, GERD occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing acid reflux or heartburn. While you are able to reduce symptoms by changing the diet, many drinks can still cause reflux or irritation.

Drinks to Avoid

According to a May 2005 study published by the American College of Chest Physicians, drinks with carbonation can cause acid reflux or heartburn if taken before sleeping. In that same study, researchers found that approximately a quarter of the population in the United States suffers from heartburn at night. In addition to the carbonation, caffeine stimulates acid production in the stomach, increasing occurrences of acid reflux. To reduce symptoms of GERD, refrain from drinking caffeinated drinks such as soda, coffee and tea and switch to coffee or tea that is decaffeinated.

Milk also increases acid reflux in some individuals, while it soothes symptoms with others. Milk should not be used to reduce symptoms of acid reflux, because relief is only temporary. While milk may initially soothe acid reflux, it soon prompts additional stomach acid production leaving the individual with acid reflux.

Limit the amount of alcohol you drink, because it too will increase acid production in the stomach and cause pain or discomfort. According to HealthCastle, beer is one of the worst beverages to drink when suffering from GERD or acid reflux, because it doubles acid within the stomach in a short period of time.

Acceptable Drinks

To reduce symptoms of acid reflux, drinking plain water is the best solution to acid production. Drinking up to a gallon of water each day may help to dilute acid within the stomach and stabilize pH levels.

Further reduce acid reflux by eating smaller meals throughout the day as opposed to a few larger ones, and never lay down after eating. Stay upright for at least an hour to ensure proper digestion and reduced occurrence of acid reflux. Avoid foods that are high in fat or salt, especially fast food, since it takes longer to digest thus leading to increased stomach acid production.