What to drink for acid reflux

What to drink for heartburn relief home remedy?

Updated: [2025-04-09] | Xiamen Smart Water Tech. Allen Huang

Many people have experienced the discomfort of acid reflux and heartburn-that hot, burning sensation rising from the stomach toward the chest and sometimes up to the throat.

It can feel like your chest is on fire, with a scorching pain that sits behind the breastbone. Some people also suffer from a sore throat, chronic coughing, or even nausea and vomiting during an episode. The discomfort can make it hard to concentrate, relax, or even sleep.

Acid reflux is commonly marked by a burning sensation in the upper chest, often referred to as heartburn. In some cases, stomach acid can rise all the way up into the throat or mouth, leaving a sour or bitter taste.

While heartburn is the most recognizable symptom, some people also experience nausea, chest tightness, or a feeling of weakness. These symptoms can be alarming, and in some cases, may even be mistaken for a heart attack or cardiac arrest, especially when accompanied by fainting or shortness of breath.

This backward movement is what causes that burning sensation and discomfort, often referred to as heartburn.

When It Becomes a Medical Condition

Occasional acid reflux is common and is medically known as gastroesophageal reflux. But when it happens frequently or over a long period, it becomes a chronic condition known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

GERD can lead to more serious health problems if left untreated, including inflammation, esophageal damage, or even long-term complications with digestion and respiratory health.

Contrary to popular belief, gastric acid reflux is not caused by an excess of stomach acid.

The main cause of gastroesophageal reflux is the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES)-a ring of muscle located at the junction between the esophagus and the stomach. When this muscle weakens or fails to close properly, it allows stomach acid to flow backward into the esophagus.

Short-term LES relaxation can be triggered by certain foods, beverages, or lifestyle factors. However, long-term or chronic relaxation is often the result of muscle weakening due to aging or other physiological changes over time.

Despite common misconceptions, there is no scientific evidence that drinking hot water directly causes acid reflux. Drinking warm water may help by stimulating digestion and relaxing the esophageal muscles, which can support smoother food passage and reduce discomfort.

It's important to note that drinking water that is too hot can irritate or burn the lining of the esophagus, potentially worsening acid reflux symptoms like heartburn or chest discomfort.

The Best Approach:
Stick to warm or comfortably hot water to soothe the digestive tract without causing further irritation. Avoid very hot water to protect your esophagus and minimize reflux flare-ups.

Avoid Coffee if You Have Acid Reflux

If you suffer from acid reflux, it's best to avoid drinking coffee. Coffee can cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. This can trigger or worsen reflux symptoms, even if only temporarily.

Drinking warm water is considered one of the most effective and natural home remedies for soothing acid reflux symptoms. According to Medical News Today, warm water may temporarily reduce the frequency and intensity of heartburn, a common symptom of acid reflux.

When you drink warm (not hot) water, it helps your digestive system by breaking down food into smaller particles, promoting smoother digestion and reducing overall stomach acidity. This can help prevent the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.

⚠️ Important: Avoid drinking water that is too hot, as it can irritate or damage the esophagus, potentially making reflux symptoms worse. That's why health experts recommend warm water over hot water.

• Aids digestion
• Dilutes stomach acid
• Soothes the esophagus
• Helps prevent heartburn flare-ups

Drinking warm water in moderation throughout the day can offer quick relief and help manage GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) symptoms more effectively.

Ginger Tea is nature's Antacid.

Why It Works:

Reduces inflammation in the gut.

Speeds up stomach emptying to prevent acid buildup.

Brew It Right:

Steep fresh ginger slices in warm (not boiling) water for 5 minutes.

Add a teaspoon of honey if tolerated.

Avoid if: You're on blood thinners (ginger can interact).

To make it easier to manage acid reflux on a daily basis, consider installing an instant hot water dispenser in your home or office. These devices provide hot, warm, or cold water on demand, allowing you to enjoy warm water anytime you need relief.

Even better, many modern dispensers come with built-in filtration systems to remove harmful contaminants, giving you clean, safe, and soothing water every time.