Beverages and acid reflux
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Coffee, Tea, Soda, and Acid Reflux Risk
Research shows that drinking coffee, tea, and soda is linked to a higher risk of developing gastroesophageal reflux (GER) symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. People who consume more than six servings of these beverages per day have a significantly increased risk compared to those who do not drink them at all. In contrast, drinking water, milk, or juice does not appear to increase GER symptoms. Replacing coffee, tea, or soda with water can help reduce the risk of GER symptoms .
Carbonated Beverages and Reflux Symptoms
Carbonated drinks, including sodas, are associated with more frequent and severe reflux symptoms. These beverages can cause feelings of fullness, heartburn, and belching. While they do not necessarily increase the amount of stomach acid reaching the mouth, they do make reflux symptoms worse for many people . The acidity of soft drinks is also strongly linked to reported heartburn, with lower pH (higher acidity) causing more symptoms .
Sugar-Sweetened Beverages and GERD
Drinks high in simple sugars, such as sugar-sweetened tea, soda, and fruit juice, are associated with increased acid exposure in the esophagus and more reflux episodes. The type of carbohydrate (simple sugars) in these beverages is more important than the amount consumed when it comes to triggering GERD symptoms .
Alcoholic Beverages and Acid Reflux
Alcoholic drinks, including both low-proof beverages like beer and wine and higher-proof options, can increase the risk of acid reflux. These drinks lower the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid to move up into the esophagus. Both beer and wine have been shown to provoke more reflux than water, and this effect is not solely due to their alcohol content or acidity 389.
Citrus Drinks, Juices, and Heartburn
Citrus drinks and juices with high acidity are also linked to more frequent heartburn. The higher the titratable acidity of these beverages, the more likely they are to cause symptoms .
Snacking, Soft Drinks, and GERD Persistence
Frequent snacking and drinking soft beverages between meals can contribute to the development and persistence of GERD. Each time a snack or soft drink is consumed, it can trigger additional acid secretion and reflux events, especially in people who are overweight or obese .
Beverage Consumption in Young People
Studies in young populations, such as college students, suggest that beverage-drinking habits, especially the consumption of soft drinks and other acidic beverages, are potential risk factors for GERD. However, the evidence is still being gathered, and more research is needed to confirm these findings in different age groups .
Mechanisms: How Beverages Trigger Reflux
Certain beverages, especially those that are acidic, carbonated, or contain alcohol, can decrease the pressure in the lower esophageal sphincter. This makes it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, causing reflux symptoms. Carbonated and chocolate drinks are particularly noted for this effect .
Conclusion
In summary, coffee, tea, soda, carbonated drinks, sugar-sweetened beverages, alcoholic drinks, and acidic citrus juices are all associated with an increased risk of acid reflux and GERD symptoms. Water, milk, and non-acidic juices do not appear to increase this risk. Reducing intake of these problematic beverages and replacing them with water may help manage or prevent acid reflux symptoms.
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