Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a common condition where stomach acid frequently flows back up into the esophagus. This can cause symptoms like heartburn, regurgitation, and difficulty swallowing. While acid reflux can be triggered by different foods and drinks, some beverages are more likely to worsen symptoms.
Coffee
Coffee is one of the most well-known drinks that can aggravate acid reflux. Studies show that coffee causes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax, allowing more stomach acid to flow up into the esophagus. The caffeine in coffee is the main culprit, as it can weaken the LES by up to 50% for several hours after drinking it. Decaf coffee can also trigger reflux if you have a sensitive stomach.
Why coffee causes reflux
- Contains caffeine which relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter
- Increases production of stomach acid
- Can irritate an already inflamed esophagus
Tips for drinking coffee with reflux
- Opt for lighter roasts which are less acidic
- Always drink coffee with food to minimize acidity
- Avoid drinking coffee on an empty stomach
- Limit yourself to just one cup per day
Alcohol
Alcohol is also a prime cause of acid reflux symptoms. All types of alcohol can relax the LES and increase stomach acid production. Red wine and beer are particularly problematic due to their high acidity. Cocktails like margaritas and daiquiris made with citrus juice can also trigger heartburn. The carbonation and bubbles in many alcoholic drinks can further aggravate reflux.
Why alcohol causes reflux
- Relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter
- Increases stomach acid production
- Can directly irritate esophageal tissue
Tips for drinking alcohol with reflux
- Avoid drinking on an empty stomach
- Stick to lighter, lower-acid drinks like vodka and gin
- Dilute drinks with water or club soda
- Limit yourself to one drink per day max
Carbonated Beverages
Fizzy drinks like soda, sparkling water, and tonic water can worsen acid reflux. The carbonation expands inside the stomach, increasing pressure on the LES. This makes it easier for stomach contents to flow upwards into the esophagus. Citrus-flavored sodas like lemon-lime and orange are especially problematic due to their acidity.
Why carbonation causes reflux
- Carbonation increases intragastric pressure
- Gas bubbles can force open the lower esophageal sphincter
- Acidic flavors directly irritate the esophagus
Tips for drinking carbonated drinks with reflux
- Avoid drinking on an empty stomach
- Use a straw to minimize contact with the esophagus
- Choose non-citrus flavors like cola or ginger ale
- Drink slowly and avoid gulping the bubbles
Fruit Juice
Fruit juices like orange, grapefruit, pineapple, and tomato juice are very acidic. Their low pH can activate pepsin in the stomach, an enzyme that can damage esophageal tissue. Citric and ascorbic acid in juices can also irritate the esophageal lining. The high sugar content in juices increases gastric acid secretion as well.
Why fruit juice causes reflux
- Highly acidic and can directly irritate esophagus
- Natural acids stimulate greater stomach acid production
- High sugar content also increases stomach acid
Tips for drinking juice with reflux
- Dilute juice with water
- Avoid drinking on an empty stomach
- Opt for milder, low-acid juices like apple or cranberry
- Limit juice portions to 4-6 oz max
Iced Tea
While hot tea can actually help improve acid reflux symptoms, the opposite is true for iced tea. Cold temperatures cause the esophageal sphincter to contract. This builds up pressure that can force open the LES. The acids in some teas like lemon and peach flavors can also worsen reflux. Brewed teas are less acidic than pre-made bottled tea drinks.
Why iced tea causes reflux
- Cold temperature tightens esophageal sphincter
- Increased pressure forces stomach contents upwards
- Acidic flavors directly irritate the esophagus
Tips for drinking iced tea with reflux
- Sip slowly to minimize cold temperature effects
- Choose herbal blends like chamomile or mint
- Opt for low-acid flavors like peach or blueberry
- Dilute premade bottled tea with water
Energy Drinks
Energy drinks like Red Bull, Monster, and Rockstar are a triple threat for acid reflux. Their high caffeine content relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. They often contain acidic flavoring like citric acid. Energy drinks are also carbonated, which increases stomach pressure. This combination makes them prone to triggering reflux symptoms.
Why energy drinks cause reflux
- High caffeine content relaxes the LES
- Often contain citric and phosphoric acid
- Carbonation increases intragastric pressure
Tips for drinking energy drinks with reflux
- Avoid large size drinks with multiple servings
- Sip slowly and avoid gulping
- Always have them with food
- Dilute with water or non-carbonated beverages
Milk and Milk Alternatives
While milk can temporarily buffer stomach acid, some reflux sufferers find it worsens their symptoms. Milk contains fat and proteins that can stimulate increased stomach acid production. Non-dairy milks like almond, soy, and coconut milk are less acidic alternatives. Just avoid carrageenan containing non-dairy milks as this additive may provoke reflux.
Why milk causes reflux
- Contains fat and protein that stimulates acid secretion
- Can coat the esophagus and trigger dyspepsia
- Cold temperature causes esophageal sphincter constriction
Tips for drinking milk with reflux
- Choose non-fat or low-fat milk
- Avoid drinking large cold glasses of milk
- Look for carrageenan-free non-dairy milks
- Opt for warm or room temperature milk
Other Problematic Drinks
Beyond the most well-known culprits, other drinks may also worsen acid reflux for some people. Here are a few more beverages to be cautious with:
- Hot chocolate – Contains cocoa, fat, and milk that stimulate acid production
- Sweet tea – High sugar content increases stomach acid secretion
- Eggnog – Heavy cream and egg yolks are reflux triggers
- Slushies – Extreme cold causes esophageal sphincter constriction
- Sports drinks – Osmolality and acidic flavors irritate the esophagus
Drinks That Help Improve Acid Reflux
While many beverages can aggravate acid reflux, there are some drinks that can actually help improve symptoms. Here are some of the best drinks to control or prevent reflux:
| Drink | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Low-acid fruit juices | Apple and aloe juice can coat and soothe the esophagus |
| Ginger tea | Ginger helps strengthen the lower esophageal sphincter |
| Licorice tea | Licorice root tea increases mucus production in the stomach |
| Almond milk | Low acidity and fat content compared to cow’s milk |
| Coconut water | Helps balance stomach acidity and pH levels |
| Fennel tea | Reduces inflammation and irritation in the esophagus |
Conclusion
Acid reflux can be triggered and worsened by many different beverages. Coffee, alcohol, carbonated drinks, fruit juices, and milk are some of the most problematic drinks for reflux sufferers. Their effects on lower esophageal sphincter pressure, stomach acidity, and direct irritation of the esophagus lining contribute to symptoms. Paying attention to what drinks cause you discomfort and avoiding them can provide relief. Conversely, low acid juices, herbal teas, plant-based milks, and coconut water can help improve reflux. Being mindful of your own sensitivities and triggers is key to managing acid reflux through diet.