10 Drinks to Manage Acid Reflux
Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a condition where stomach acid repeatedly flows back into the tube connecting the mouth and stomach, known as the esophagus. The condition is called GERD, and the backwash is known as acid reflux. This affects many people and can irritate the lining of the esophagus. Most people can manage the discomfort of GERD with lifestyle changes. One can try some natural drinks that can help manage acid reflux.
Water
This is undoubtedly one of the best things to drink for managing various conditions, including acid reflux. Water is known to help with digestion and is vital to the proper functioning of the body.
Ginger tea
Ginger is known to lower the pressure on the esophageal sphincter. As a result, it may alleviate reflux and dyspepsia. The herb has natural anti-inflammatory properties and is recognized for having gut-soothing properties. One could drink ginger tea as whole by boiling it in hot water before drinking it or in combination with honey.
Marshmallow root tea
The fibrous brown root has several beneficial properties, including those for acid reflux, as it is rich in a mucilage-like substance. The property lines the digestive tract, including the esophagus, and protects it from irritation and potential damage. Drinking tea made from marshmallow root may also stimulate cell renewal. One could pour boiled water over the dried root, leave it for steeping, followed by straining. One could add some honey to the tea if they want a sweet taste.
Low-fat milk
Foods and drinks with high-fat content, such as whole milk, can often worsen symptoms of GERD. On the contrary, drinking low-fat and plant-based milks could have the opposite effects and soothe symptoms of acid reflux. Some top choices include oat or almond milk, but one could look for other alternatives. When one shops for low-fat milk, one should check the labels to ensure they are fortified plant-based options where possible.
Liquorice tea
Derived from the root of the licorice plant, it has a naturally sweet flavor, which makes it a popular herbal infusion. Its tea has been used for years to manage digestive issues like indigestion, which may lead to acid reflux. It contains an active component, glycyrrhizin, which gives it a sweet flavor.
Coconut milk
Another drink that helps stop acid reflux is coconut milk. It may soothe GERD symptoms because of its anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, its electrolyte content helps promote pH balance and regulates the high acidity with reflux. One could enjoy coconut milk in several ways, including as a keto smoothie. The five-minute preparation will require about 500 ml of coconut milk, some spinach leaves (washed and chopped), and fresh (or frozen) berries. Other ingredients include some shelled hemp seeds, milled flaxseeds, and a piece of ginger. All one has to do is combine these ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth, pour it into a glass, and sip.
Aloe vera juice
Aloe vera has multiple uses, including managing symptoms of GERD. Natural aloe vera juice may help relieve inflammation in the stomach and esophagus. In fact, it has been found that management methods prescribed by the doctor work better for people with acid reflux when they drink aloe vera juice. But one should speak to a care provider about drinking aloe vera juice as it may work differently for each individual.
Chamomile tea
Many people may drink chamomile tea to soothe digestive issues, such as an upset stomach, gas, and acid reflux. The tea contains anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve symptoms of GERD. One may need to drink it after meals or before bedtime to benefit from its positive effects on acid reflux. But it is advisable to always consult an expert before having any form of tea for managing acid reflux.
Carrot juice
This is one of the most popular drinks to cure acid reflux. Carrot juice contains calcium, vitamin C, B vitamins like folate, and vitamins A and E. Together, these can work towards easing digestive conditions like GERD and keep acid reflux in check. To make carrot juice, take two cups of chopped carrots and put them in a blender with some water. It’s that simple. The result will be about half a cup of fresh juice. One could always use more carrots if they want a larger cup.
Cabbage juice
A top food that can work to soothe acid reflux, even in the form of juice, is cabbage. The juice is loaded with nutrients, including vitamins C and K, and drinking it may contribute toward a better gut outlook. Fermented versions of cabbage juice may also benefit one’s gut. A juice that results from making sauerkraut (a type of fermented cabbage) is high in lactic acid bacteria. Such probiotics are typically considered beneficial for the gut.