Jakarta –
If you suffer from acid reflux then you need to avoid drinks that worsen the symptoms. But there are several drinks that are suitable for GERD sufferers.
Choosing nonacidic beverages such as plant-based milk, water, herbal teas, and smoothies may reduce symptoms.
What is Acid Reflux, aka Gerd?
Acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause stomach acid to rise into the esophagus. This can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as heartburn and acid regurgitation.
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If you suffer from acid reflux or GERD, certain foods and drinks may worsen your symptoms.
Symptoms of acid reflux and GERD can include; heartburn, cough, nausea, belching, sore throat, regurgitation and hoarseness
The terms “acid reflux” and “GERD” are often used interchangeably, but have different meanings. Acid reflux refers to symptoms that occur occasionally, while GERD is defined as chronically recurring acid reflux.
This can occur if people have a weak or non-functioning lower esophageal sphincter that allows stomach acid to flow backwards into the esophagus. Over time, untreated GERD can cause inflammation or damage to the esophagus.
Drinks for GERD Sufferers
Certain drinks may not cause acid reflux symptoms, while other drinks may help relieve the symptoms you experience.
Beverages such as coffee, soda, and sour juices may increase the risk or severity of reflux symptoms. So, what should you drink? There are many options that are unlikely to trigger reflux and may even help reduce symptoms.
1. Herbal Tea
 Drinking herbal tea can improve digestion and soothe stomach problems. Photo: TasteAtlas |
Herbal teas can help improve digestion and soothe stomach problems, such as gas and nausea.
Some drinks that Gerd sufferers can enjoy include cammomile tea, licorice tea and ginger tea.
Licorice may help increase the mucus layer in the lining of the esophagus, which may help reduce the effects of backflow of stomach acid. A 2017 study found that an herbal formula including deglycyrrhizinated licorice provided relief from GERD symptoms consistently better than regular antacids.
However, there is still room for further research to confirm the effectiveness of herbal teas, including fennel, marshmallow root, and papaya tea.
When using dried herbs as extracts in tea, it is recommended to use 1 teaspoon of the herb per 1 cup of hot water. Steep the covered leaves or flowers for 5 to 10 minutes. If you use roots, soak them for 10 to 20 minutes. For best results, you can drink 2 to 4 cups per day.
However, it’s best to avoid peppermint tea, as mint can actually trigger acid reflux symptoms in some people.
2. Low Fat or Skim Milk
 Low-fat milk is also a suitable drink for GERD sufferers. Photo: iStock/Datikfood |
Quoting Prevention, cow’s milk may be difficult for some people to digest. Whole milk can contain a lot of fat. Consuming full-fat cow’s milk and other high-fat foods can relax the lower esophageal sphincter, which can cause or worsen reflux symptoms, according to a 2019 research review.
If you are going to consume cow’s milk products in your diet, consider choosing milk options with a lower fat content.
3. Plant-based milk
 Soy milk or other plant-based milk is also suitable for those who have GERD to drink. Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto/ |
Quoting Healthline, for people with lactose intolerance or those who experience increased acid reflux symptoms due to consuming dairy products, plant-based milk may be a good alternative. There are various products available, including: soy milk, cashew milk, oat milk, almond milk.
Soy milk and other plant-based milks have a lower fat content than most dairy products, making them safer choices for humans.
4. Low fat Greek Yogurt
This Greek yogurt has a soft texture and can help fight stomach acidity. Low-fat dairy products have a lower pH level.
“Which helps neutralize stomach acid and acts as a lining in the esophagus and stomach to relieve discomfort,” says Bradee Rojas, metabolic and bariatric surgery program coordinator at Inspira Health.
Julie Stefanski, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, added that this yogurt is a good source of protein for healing the digestive tract. The calcium in dairy products can also help trigger closure of the upper esophageal sphincter, which is what you want to stop acid reflux.
But not all yogurts are created equal. “Be careful with full-fat dairy products, including ice cream, as high-fat foods can worsen reflux,” adds Rojas.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar
 Apple Cider Vinegar is said to have the effect of reducing digestive disorders. Photo: Getty Images/iStockphoto/YelenaYemchuk |
Some people have proven that a spoonful of apple cider vinegar can tame heartburn. Apple cider vinegar is a probiotic, which may work well in some people. Although further research is needed to prove the effect of consuming apple cider vinegar on reducing this digestive disorder.
(aqr/odi)
