Avoiding the drinks and foods that cause the symptoms is the best way to evade the effects of acid reflux. However, some drinks may help reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Ginger teaGinger can help reduce symptoms of many gastrointestinal complaints, including:
acid refluxbloatingdyspepsiaGinger eases pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter and improves gastric emptying. Without reducing this pressure, the risk of the sphincter failing increases, allowing stomach acid to flow back into the food pipe.
Ensuring a person’s stomach empties effectively may also reduce stomach acid in the upper digestive tract.
Drinking ginger tea can help a person consume more ginger and provide a warm, soothing sensation.
Ginger ale is less likely to help because of carbonation and sometimes contains caffeine. Most commercial ginger ale sodas also do not contain enough ginger to he a positive effect.
Fruit and vegetable juicesHighly acidic fruit juices may irritate the mucus membrane of the food pipe, which can worsen acid reflux symptoms.
That said, low-acid fruits and vegetables often contain natural compounds that may reduce acid reflux. Eating and drinking these fruits and vegetables may be beneficial to some people.
Good choices for juicing include:
aloe veracelerycarrotcantaloupehoneydew melonLearn more about diets for GERD here.
Low-fat milkFoods and drinks with high fat content, such as whole milk, can worsen symptoms of GERD. So, low fat and plant-based milks can be good options.
Some plant-based milk, like almond milk, is also alkaline, which can help neutralize stomach acid.
WaterWater can help with digestion and is integral to the proper working of the body. Staying adequately hydrated can ensure the appropriate passing of food through the gastrointestinal system, reducing the frequency of post-meal acid reflux.
Regularly taking small sips of water throughout the day may also help clear acid in the esophagus and treat a GERD-related chronic cough.