Something unexpected may be sparking your heartburn. Most of us know what triggers to avoid if we struggle with heartburn. We steer clear of heartburn or sleep in specific positions. But how you drink water may make acid reflux worse.
Being hydrated is essential to good health. But how you drink does matter, according to Molly Pelletier, a registered dietician and acid reflux specialist.
“If you’re chugging large amounts of water with meals or guzzling cold water on an empty stomach, you might unknowingly be triggering symptoms like heartburn, throat clearing, bloating or regurgitation,” explained Ms. Pelletier.
She said that to protect the lower esophageal sphincter, you should drink in a specific way. “Sip slowly — especially during meals. Think gentle hydration, not flooding your stomach. Aim to hydrate between meals instead of right before or right after eating.”
When you drink water on an empty stomach, it is absorbed in as little as five minutes. That can create a more acidic environment in the stomach. Drinking water with food already in the stomach makes it so that water is absorbed less rapidly. The key is to time your hydration between meals when you aren’t starving, but you also aren’t actively eating. That’s when it’s gentlest on your throat if you are at high risk.
Knowing what to drink is as essential as knowing how to drink. There is a symptom of heartburn called water brash. It has nothing to do with water. When you have acid reflux, stomach acid gets in your throat. If you have excess saliva, it can cause a sour taste and an activity loop that triggers hypersalivation and a sore throat.
If you suffer from water brash, avoiding carbonated drinks and caffeine can reduce symptoms. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with pure water. You can also take antacids, H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors to neutralize or lessen the amount of stomach acid in your body.
Heartburn is an uncomfortable condition. If you experience symptoms more than twice a week, the American College of Gastroenterology recommends speaking to a doctor about your concerns. There are treatments available, both OTC and prescription, that can help you. By working with your doctor, you can make a plan that fits your health goals.
