KOMPAS.com – Stomach acid is one of the most common digestive complaints in Indonesian society.
Symptoms of stomach acid include a burning sensation or burning pain in the middle of the chest that can spread to the throat. Some sufferers also complain of a bad taste in the mouth and bad breath.
This symptom occurs because acidic stomach contents rise into the esophagus. If allowed to continue, this condition can cause inflammation or damage, and even develop into a more serious condition.
Also read: 4 side effects of eating too much garlic, stomach acid
Drinks that can trigger stomach acid
Some drinks are known to worsen stomach acid symptoms. Here are some common triggers and alternative drinks to try:
Coffee
The caffeine content in coffee can worsen symptoms for some sensitive people.
Alternative:
Decaffeinated coffee or herbal tea.
Alcohol
Alcohol, including beer and wine, can weaken the sphincter muscle that controls the opening between the stomach and esophagus.
Alternative: Choose non-alcoholic drinks.
Orange juice
The citric acid content in orange juice can worsen stomach acid symptoms.
Alternative: Papaya juice or aloe vera juice.
Also read: Stomach acid often occurs, these are the foods you should consume
Tomato juice
Even though the acidity level of tomato juice is lower than that of oranges, this juice can still trigger reflux symptoms.
Alternative: Papaya juice.
Carbonated drinks
Fizzy drinks can cause stomach distention which puts pressure on the sphincter muscle.
Alternative: Water or diluted uncarbonated syrup.