Do you suffer from acid reflux? If so, you know it can be challenging to find alcoholic drinks that don’t upset your stomach. While alcohol can aggravate acid reflux, there are some drinks you can enjoy without triggering your condition. In this article, we’ll explore the alcoholic drinks you can safely enjoy with acid reflux.

What Alcohol Can You Drink With Acid Reflux?

What is Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. This is typically accompanied by a sour or bitter taste in the mouth, and can be accompanied by other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, regurgitation, and even chest pain.

Acid reflux is typically treated with lifestyle modifications, medications, or both. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding certain foods and beverages, eating smaller meals, and avoiding lying down immediately after meals can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Medications including antacids, H2 blockers, and proton pump inhibitors can also be used to reduce acid production in the stomach.

In addition to lifestyle modifications and medications, avoiding certain foods and drinks can also help reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Alcohol is one of the most common causes of acid reflux, and it is important to be aware of which types of alcohol are more likely to trigger reflux symptoms.

What Types of Alcohol are Safe for Acid Reflux?

The types of alcohol that are least likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms include light beer, white wine, and clear liquor such as vodka or gin. Low-alcohol beer and white wines are generally considered to be safer choices for those with acid reflux. It is important to note that even these types of alcohol can still trigger symptoms in some people.

Light Beer

Light beers are typically lower in alcohol content than regular beers and also contain fewer calories. These beers are generally a safer choice for those with acid reflux, as they are less likely to trigger symptoms. Some popular light beers include Bud Light, Miller Lite, and Coors Light.

White Wine

White wines are generally lower in alcohol content than red wines and also contain fewer calories. White wines are typically less acidic than red wines, which makes them a safer choice for those with acid reflux. Popular white wines include Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Clear Liquor

Clear liquors such as vodka and gin are typically lower in alcohol content than darker liquors such as whiskey and rum. Clear liquors are also less likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms, making them a safer choice for those with the condition. Popular clear liquors include vodka, gin, and tequila.

What Types of Alcohol Should be Avoided?

Darker liquors such as whiskey and rum are generally higher in alcohol content than clear liquors and can be more likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms. It is important to note that even light beers and white wines can still trigger symptoms in some people, so it is important to be aware of your own triggers and avoid them when possible.

Red Wine

Red wines are generally higher in alcohol content than white wines and also contain more calories. Red wines are also typically more acidic than white wines, which can be more likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms. Popular red wines include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.

Dark Liquor

Dark liquors such as whiskey and rum are generally higher in alcohol content than clear liquors and can be more likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms. Popular dark liquors include whiskey, rum, and brandy.

What Other Tips Can Help Reduce Symptoms of Acid Reflux?

In addition to avoiding certain types of alcohol, there are several other lifestyle modifications that can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux. These include avoiding spicy foods, fatty foods, and acidic foods; eating smaller, more frequent meals; avoiding lying down immediately after eating; and avoiding tight-fitting clothing.

Avoiding Spicy Foods

Spicy foods can be a common trigger of acid reflux symptoms, so it is important to avoid them when possible. Commonly spicy foods include hot peppers, chili, and curries.

Avoiding Fatty Foods

Fatty foods can be difficult to digest and can trigger symptoms of acid reflux. It is best to avoid fatty foods when possible and instead opt for lean proteins and healthy fats such as avocado and olive oil.

Conclusion

For those with acid reflux, it is important to be aware of which types of alcohol are more likely to trigger symptoms. Light beers, white wines, and clear liquors such as vodka and gin are generally considered to be safer choices. In addition to avoiding certain types of alcohol, lifestyle modifications such as avoiding spicy, fatty, and acidic foods; eating smaller meals; avoiding lying down immediately after eating; and avoiding tight-fitting clothing can also help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions

What Alcohol Can I Drink With Acid Reflux?

Answer: Generally, it is recommended to avoid or limit alcohol consumption if you suffer from acid reflux. Alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of acid reflux symptoms. However, some alcoholic beverages are considered to be safer than others, such as wine and beer.

Red wine has been found to be the least acidic alcoholic beverage, and thus may be the best choice for people with acid reflux. Studies have found that moderate consumption of red wine can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. White wine is slightly more acidic than red wine and may trigger symptoms in those who are sensitive to acid reflux.

Beer is also considered to be a better option than other alcoholic beverages for people with acid reflux. Beers with a lower alcohol content are less likely to irritate the stomach and trigger symptoms. However, it is important to note that beer is still acidic and should be consumed in moderation.

What Is the Best Type of Alcohol to Drink With Acid Reflux?

Answer: Generally, red wine is considered to be the best type of alcohol to drink with acid reflux. Studies have found that moderate consumption of red wine can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Red wine has been found to be the least acidic alcoholic beverage, and thus may be the best choice for people with acid reflux.

Beer is also considered to be a better option than other alcoholic beverages for people with acid reflux. Beers with a lower alcohol content are less likely to irritate the stomach and trigger symptoms. However, it is important to note that beer is still acidic and should be consumed in moderation.

Is Hard Alcohol Safe to Drink With Acid Reflux?

Answer: Generally, it is not recommended to drink hard alcohol if you suffer from acid reflux. Hard alcohol has a higher alcohol content than wine and beer, and can potentially cause more irritation to the stomach and trigger symptoms. Additionally, hard alcohol is typically more acidic than wine and beer, further increasing the risk of acid reflux symptoms.

If you do choose to drink hard alcohol, it is important to do so in moderation and to ensure that it is not combined with other acidic foods or beverages that could potentially trigger symptoms. Additionally, it may be beneficial to drink a glass of water between each alcoholic drink to help reduce the risk of acid reflux symptoms.

What Are Some Non-Alcoholic Drinks That Are Safe to Drink With Acid Reflux?

Answer: Non-alcoholic drinks that are safe to drink with acid reflux include seltzer water, herbal teas, unsweetened almond milk, and vegetable juices. Seltzer water is a great option because it is low in calories and can help to soothe the stomach. Herbal teas, such as chamomile or ginger, can also help to reduce symptoms of acid reflux. Unsweetened almond milk is a great alternative to cow’s milk and is low in fat and sugar, which can help reduce acid reflux symptoms. Finally, vegetable juices, such as tomato and carrot juice, are low in acid and high in vitamins and minerals, making them a great choice for those who suffer from acid reflux.

What Foods Should I Avoid With Acid Reflux?

Answer: Foods that should be avoided with acid reflux include spicy foods, fried foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes, chocolate, coffee, alcohol, and high-fat foods. Spicy foods can irritate the stomach and trigger acid reflux symptoms. Fried foods are also known to trigger symptoms, as they are high in fat and can take longer to digest. Citrus fruits, tomatoes, and chocolate contain high levels of acid and can exacerbate symptoms. Coffee and alcohol are known to relax the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing the risk of acid reflux symptoms. Lastly, high-fat foods are difficult to digest and can trigger symptoms.

Can I Drink Sparkling Water With Acid Reflux?

Answer: Yes, sparkling water is generally considered to be safe to drink with acid reflux. Sparkling water is low in calories and can help to soothe the stomach, making it a great option for those who suffer from acid reflux. Additionally, sparkling water does not contain any acid, which can help to reduce the risk of symptoms. However, it is important to note that sparkling water may trigger symptoms in those who are sensitive to carbonation.

Does Alcohol Cause Acid Reflux? Is it Bad for Heartburn and Acid Reflux?

The answer to this question is simple: the best alcohol to drink with acid reflux is none. While some people may be able to tolerate certain types of alcohol without developing any symptoms, the safest option is to abstain from alcohol altogether. It is important to note that everyone’s body reacts differently, and what works for one person may not work for another. Speak with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine what is best for your individual situation.