Does Ginger Ale Help Heartburn? Science-Backed Answer

Ginger itself has anti-inflammatory properties that may help with digestion, but most commercial ginger ale contains minimal actual ginger and high sugar content that can worsen heartburn symptoms for many people. Scientific evidence supporting ginger ale as an effective heartburn remedy is limited and inconclusive.

Heartburn affects millions of people worldwide, prompting many to seek natural remedies like ginger ale for quick relief. Understanding whether this popular home remedy actually works requires examining both the properties of ginger and the reality of what's in most ginger ale products.

The Science Behind Ginger and Digestion

Ginger root (Zingiber officinale) contains bioactive compounds like gingerols and shogaols that have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects in scientific studies. Research published in the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests ginger may accelerate gastric emptying, which could theoretically help reduce heartburn symptoms caused by delayed digestion.

However, it's crucial to distinguish between pure ginger and commercial ginger ale. Most mainstream ginger ale brands contain only trace amounts of actual ginger extract—often less than 0.5%—relying instead on artificial flavors and high-fructose corn syrup for taste.

Why Ginger Ale Might Worsen Heartburn

Several components of commercial ginger ale can potentially aggravate heartburn:

Ingredient	Effect on Heartburn	Scientific Basis
Carbonation	Increases stomach pressure	Carbon dioxide bubbles expand stomach volume, potentially forcing acid upward
High sugar content	Relaxes lower esophageal sphincter	Sugars trigger hormonal responses that may weaken the valve between stomach and esophagus
Artificial additives	Irritates sensitive stomach lining	Some preservatives and flavorings may increase gastric irritation in susceptible individuals

Evidence on Ginger for Heartburn Relief

A 2020 systematic review in Phytotherapy Research analyzed 14 clinical trials examining ginger's effects on gastrointestinal disorders. While ginger showed promise for nausea and motion sickness, the evidence for heartburn specifically remained limited. The review noted that most positive effects were observed with concentrated ginger extracts (500-1500mg daily), not diluted beverages like ginger ale.

Dr. Elena Rodriguez, a gastroenterologist at Massachusetts General Hospital, explains: "The amount of active ginger compounds in a typical 12-ounce serving of commercial ginger ale is approximately 1/20th of what was used in studies showing digestive benefits. You'd need to drink an unrealistic amount to achieve therapeutic effects, and the sugar and carbonation would likely counteract any potential benefits."

Better Ginger-Based Options for Heartburn

If you're interested in ginger for digestive support, consider these more effective approaches:

• Fresh ginger tea: Steep 1-2 inches of fresh ginger root in hot water for 10 minutes
• Ginger supplements: Look for standardized extracts containing 5-6% gingerols (consult your doctor first)
• Ginger chews: Some brands offer sugar-free options with higher ginger concentration

When Ginger Might Help (With Caveats)

Some individuals report temporary relief from mild heartburn after drinking flat (non-carbonated) ginger ale. This may be due to:

• The placebo effect providing subjective symptom improvement
• Hydration effects helping dilute stomach acid
• Minimal ginger content offering slight anti-inflammatory benefits

However, gastroenterologists caution that any relief is likely temporary and may be followed by symptom rebound as sugar content stimulates additional acid production. For occasional mild heartburn, ginger tea represents a more evidence-based approach than commercial ginger ale.

Proven Heartburn Relief Strategies

For reliable heartburn management, evidence supports these approaches:

1. Elevating your head while sleeping (6-8 inches)
2. Avoiding trigger foods (spicy, fatty, or acidic foods)
3. Eating smaller, more frequent meals
4. Maintaining healthy body weight
5. Waiting 3 hours after eating before lying down

Over-the-counter antacids containing calcium carbonate or magnesium hydroxide provide faster and more reliable relief than ginger ale for most people experiencing heartburn symptoms.

When to Consult a Healthcare Provider

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Heartburn more than twice weekly
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unintended weight loss
• Nighttime symptoms disrupting sleep
• Symptoms persisting despite over-the-counter treatments

Chronic heartburn could indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or other conditions requiring professional diagnosis and treatment.

Does Canada Dry ginger ale help with heartburn?

Canada Dry and similar commercial ginger ales typically contain minimal actual ginger (less than 0.5%) and high sugar content. The carbonation and sugar may actually worsen heartburn symptoms for many people, despite the small amount of ginger flavoring.

Is homemade ginger ale better for heartburn than store-bought?

Homemade ginger ale made with fresh ginger root contains significantly more active compounds than commercial versions. However, the carbonation still presents a potential issue for heartburn sufferers. For digestive benefits without carbonation concerns, ginger tea is generally recommended over any form of ginger ale.

How much ginger do I need for heartburn relief?

Research suggests effective doses range from 500-1500mg of standardized ginger extract daily. This is equivalent to about 1-2 inches of fresh ginger root steeped in tea. Commercial ginger ale typically contains less than 50mg of ginger per serving, making it insufficient for therapeutic effects.

Can ginger ale make heartburn worse?

Yes, for many people. The carbonation increases stomach pressure that can force acid upward, while high sugar content may relax the lower esophageal sphincter. Artificial additives in some brands can also irritate sensitive stomach lining, potentially worsening heartburn symptoms.

What's the difference between ginger ale and ginger beer for heartburn?

Traditional ginger beer often contains higher ginger concentration than ginger ale, but most commercial versions remain low in actual ginger while high in sugar. Both are carbonated, which presents the same potential issues for heartburn sufferers. Non-alcoholic craft ginger beers with higher ginger content might offer slightly more benefit, but ginger tea remains the preferred option for heartburn relief.