Does Ginger Ale Help With Acid Reflux? Science Says No

No, commercial ginger ale generally does not help with acid reflux and may actually worsen symptoms for most people. While pure ginger has shown some potential digestive benefits in scientific studies, the carbonation, high sugar content, and minimal actual ginger in most commercial ginger ales counteract any potential benefits and can trigger acid reflux symptoms.

Many people reach for ginger ale when experiencing digestive discomfort, believing it's a natural remedy for acid reflux. This common misconception stems from confusing pure ginger with commercial ginger ale. Let's examine the science behind this popular belief and understand why ginger ale typically isn't the solution you might expect for acid reflux relief.

The Ginger Ale Composition Problem

Modern commercial ginger ale bears little resemblance to traditional ginger-based remedies. Most popular brands contain:

Ingredient	Typical Amount in Commercial Ginger Ale	Effect on Acid Reflux
Carbonated water	Primary ingredient	Increases stomach pressure, triggers reflux
Sugar or high-fructose corn syrup	8-12 teaspoons per 12oz can	Relaxes lower esophageal sphincter, worsening reflux
Actual ginger root	Trace amounts (often just flavoring)	Minimal potential benefit
Citric acid	Added for flavor	Can irritate esophagus in sensitive individuals

Ginger vs. Ginger Ale: Understanding the Critical Difference

Research on ginger's potential digestive benefits refers to pure ginger root, not commercial ginger ale. Studies showing positive effects typically use:

• Ginger tea made from fresh or dried ginger root
• Ginger supplements with standardized gingerol content
• Raw ginger consumed in small amounts

A 2020 review published in Nutrients found that ginger may help accelerate gastric emptying and reduce nausea, which could theoretically benefit some digestive issues. However, these studies didn't examine commercial ginger ale specifically.

Why Carbonation Worsens Acid Reflux

The carbonation in ginger ale creates a double problem for acid reflux sufferers:

1. Increased stomach pressure: Carbonated beverages expand in the stomach, increasing pressure that can force stomach contents back up the esophagus
2. Lowered esophageal sphincter pressure: Studies show carbonation directly reduces the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that prevents stomach acid from entering the esophagus

A 2018 study in the Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility confirmed that carbonated beverages significantly increase reflux episodes compared to non-carbonated alternatives.

Sugar Content: Another Reflux Trigger

The high sugar content in most ginger ales presents another problem. Research published in Gastroenterology demonstrates that high-sugar foods and beverages:

• Relax the lower esophageal sphincter
• Prolong stomach emptying time
• Promote inflammation in the digestive tract

These effects directly counteract any potential benefit from the minimal ginger content.

When Ginger Might Actually Help Digestive Issues

Pure ginger (not commercial ginger ale) may provide benefits for certain digestive symptoms, though evidence for acid reflux specifically remains limited:

• Nausea relief: Multiple studies confirm ginger's effectiveness against nausea, including pregnancy-related nausea and chemotherapy-induced nausea
• Gastric motility: Some research suggests ginger may accelerate stomach emptying, which could theoretically help certain digestive issues
• Anti-inflammatory properties: Ginger contains compounds that may reduce inflammation in the digestive tract

However, these potential benefits don't necessarily translate to acid reflux relief, and the delivery method (commercial ginger ale) negates most advantages.

Better Alternatives for Acid Reflux Relief

If you're seeking natural approaches for acid reflux relief, consider these evidence-supported alternatives instead of ginger ale:

• Ginger tea: Made from fresh ginger root without carbonation or added sugar
• Alkaline water: May help neutralize stomach acid temporarily
• Aloe vera juice: Some studies suggest it may soothe the esophagus
• Chamomile tea: May reduce inflammation and promote healing
• Slippery elm tea: Forms a protective coating in the digestive tract

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

While occasional acid reflux is common, frequent symptoms require medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience:

• Heartburn more than twice weekly
• Difficulty swallowing
• Unintended weight loss
• Nighttime symptoms that disrupt sleep
• Symptoms persisting despite lifestyle changes

Chronic acid reflux could indicate gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which requires proper diagnosis and treatment to prevent complications like esophagitis or Barrett's esophagus.

Practical Tips for Managing Acid Reflux

Along with avoiding problematic beverages like commercial ginger ale, these evidence-based strategies can help manage acid reflux:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of large portions
• Avoid lying down for at least 3 hours after eating
• Elevate the head of your bed 6-8 inches
• Identify and avoid personal trigger foods (common triggers include citrus, tomatoes, chocolate, mint, and fatty foods)
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Quit smoking if applicable

Conclusion

While the idea that ginger ale helps with acid reflux is widespread, scientific evidence doesn't support this claim for commercial ginger ale products. The carbonation and high sugar content typically outweigh any potential benefits from the minimal ginger content. For those seeking natural approaches to manage acid reflux symptoms, pure ginger preparations like ginger tea may offer some benefits without the reflux-triggering components of commercial ginger ale. Always consult with a healthcare provider for persistent acid reflux symptoms to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Canada Dry ginger ale help with acid reflux?

No, Canada Dry and other commercial ginger ale brands generally do not help with acid reflux. Despite containing "ginger" in the name, these products contain minimal actual ginger root extract while including carbonation and high sugar content that typically worsen acid reflux symptoms.

Is homemade ginger ale better for acid reflux than store-bought?

Homemade ginger ale that's naturally fermented with real ginger and minimal sugar might offer slightly more potential benefit than commercial versions, but the carbonation still presents a problem. For acid reflux relief, non-carbonated ginger tea made from fresh ginger root would be a better option without the reflux-triggering carbonation.

Can ginger ale make acid reflux worse?

Yes, for most people with acid reflux, commercial ginger ale can worsen symptoms. The carbonation increases stomach pressure and relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, while the high sugar content further contributes to reflux episodes. Many people report increased heartburn after consuming ginger ale despite believing it would help.

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

Traditional ginger beer typically contains more actual ginger than ginger ale, but most commercial versions remain highly carbonated and sugary. While the higher ginger content might offer slightly more potential benefit, the carbonation still makes both beverages generally unsuitable for acid reflux relief. Non-carbonated ginger preparations remain the better option.

Does ginger tea help with acid reflux better than ginger ale?

Yes, ginger tea is generally a better option than ginger ale for acid reflux. Without carbonation and added sugar, ginger tea delivers the potential digestive benefits of ginger without the reflux-triggering components. Steep fresh ginger root in hot water for 10-15 minutes for maximum benefit, and avoid adding sugar which could counteract the positive effects.