Carbonated beverages for upset stomach
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Carbonated Beverages and Upset Stomach: Effects on Gastrointestinal Symptoms
Carbonated Beverages and Gastroesophageal Reflux Symptoms
Research shows that drinking carbonated beverages can increase symptoms related to gastroesophageal reflux, such as feelings of fullness, heartburn, and the urge to belch. These symptoms are more pronounced after consuming carbonated drinks compared to non-carbonated beverages or water, even though there is no significant increase in pepsin (a marker of stomach acid reaching the mouth) after drinking carbonated beverages 12. This suggests that while carbonated drinks may not cause more stomach acid to reach the mouth, they do make reflux symptoms worse.
Gastric Distention, Fullness, and Discomfort
Carbonated beverages increase the volume of gas in the stomach, which can lead to a feeling of fullness and bloating. Studies have found that this effect is more noticeable when more than 300 mL of a carbonated drink is consumed. Women, in particular, may experience more discomfort and retain more fluid in the stomach than men after drinking carbonated beverages, which can lead to increased nausea and bloating 35. The sensation of satiety (feeling full) is also heightened after consuming carbonated drinks, especially those designed to form gels in the stomach, which further distend the stomach and increase fullness .
Use of Carbonated Beverages for Nausea and Vomiting
There is a common belief that carbonated beverages, especially cola-type drinks, can help with nausea and vomiting. Some over-the-counter remedies for nausea contain phosphoric acid, which is also found in cola drinks. However, scientific evidence supporting the use of carbonated beverages for treating nausea or vomiting is limited. While some studies mention their use in dissolving certain stomach blockages or for their antibacterial effects, more research is needed to confirm any anti-nausea benefits, especially in children .
Carbonated Beverages and Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Higher intake of carbonated beverages is associated with worsening symptoms in people with functional gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and functional dyspepsia (FD). These drinks can aggravate symptoms like heartburn, bloating, and discomfort. In contrast, water and fruit juices may help with constipation, but the evidence for carbonated beverages improving any digestive symptoms is weak .
Safety Concerns: Stomach Rupture and Serious Complications
Despite concerns, there is no evidence that carbonated beverages alone cause stomach rupture. Reviews of medical literature have not found cases where carbonated drinks were the sole cause of stomach rupture, although rare cases have been linked to bicarbonate preparations in people with already overdistended stomachs 68.
Conclusion
Current research suggests that carbonated beverages are more likely to worsen symptoms of an upset stomach, such as fullness, heartburn, bloating, and belching, rather than relieve them. They do not appear to increase the risk of serious complications like stomach rupture in healthy individuals, but they can aggravate symptoms in people with reflux or other digestive disorders. There is little scientific support for using carbonated drinks to treat nausea or vomiting, and more research is needed to clarify any potential benefits. For those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues, it may be best to avoid carbonated beverages when experiencing an upset stomach.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic