Is water beneficial for acidity?

By diluting the stomach acid, water can temporarily ease the discomfort. But drinking too much while you’re eating may not be effective.

Is coffee worse than tea for heartburn?

Generally, yes. Coffee contains more caffeine, and it can loosen the lower oesophageal sphincter, intensifying reflux risk.

Can all herbal teas ease heartburn?

Most herbal teas, such as ginger, chamomile, and liquorice, are gentle. Skip the peppermint if it triggers heartburn, as it can relax the muscle in your oesophageal sphincter.

How Different Types of Liquids Affect Heartburn Differently

Heartburn can turn a delicious meal into a troublesome experience. Whatever you drink— milk, tea, or juice— can react differently with your stomach. Let's explore how each influences heartburn and what you can do to feel better.

Why Do Liquids Ease or Trigger Heartburn?

You experience heartburn mostly due to acid reflux, where your stomach acid backflows to your oesophagus. Liquids can impact this in various ways:

Acidic drinks can make the burning sensation worse
Fatty liquids increase acid reflux by inhibiting digestion
Extremely cold or hot drinks may irritate your oesophagus

Your goal is to choose drinks that are gentle on your stomach while avoiding triggers. Knowing these factors helps you prevent discomfort even before it starts, rather than seeking a remedy after it has already happened.

Can Juices Make Heartburn Worse?

Juices, particularly citrus types like pineapple, grapefruit, or orange, are naturally acidic. Drinking them can increase stomach acid, making heartburn more intense.
If you prefer juice, try apple or pear, as they are non-citrus. In the case of citrus types, dilute them with water.
Research states that acidic drinks raise oesophageal acid levels by up to 30%, contributing to reflux symptoms in sensitive individuals.

Remember, you don't have to avoid juice completely, just adjust when and how you drink it. Also, drinking slowly instead of large gulps can help reduce acid reflux scenarios.

Does Milk Ease Heartburn?

Milk is often considered soothing as it can momentarily neutralise stomach acid. However, this is a temporary effect.

Full-fat milk could make heartburn worse for some, as high-fat foods slow down digestion
Low-fat or skim milk is generally better tolerated and may provide momentary relief

If you need relief, drink a small sip of milk after a meal. Avoid large quantities, as that could trigger heartburn later. Using a small amount of milk in smoothies or adding a bit to tea can provide comfort without overloading your stomach.

How Does Tea Aggravate Heartburn?

Teas can have mixed effects, depending on what you prefer to drink.

Both green and black teas contain caffeine. Caffeine can relax the lower oesophageal sphincter, making heartburn worse.
Herbal teas like ginger, chamomile, and even liquorice can comfort your stomach and reduce heartburn
Lukewarm tea is more gentle on your oesophagus than hot tea

If you're an avid tea lover, switch to caffeine-free herbal tea options and avoid drinking right before bedtime. Try drinking water between cups of coffee. It can help reduce acid reflux.

How Do Liquids Affect Heartburn?

Here’s something you should keep in mind:

Sodas or fizzy drinks can worsen stomach pressure, which can lead to acid reflux
Artificial sweeteners in some juices and teas may irritate sensitive stomachs
Drinking any liquid, a lot while you eat, can dilute digestive juices, which can cause indigestion and heartburn

Keeping this in mind can assist you in making better choices. Try drinking between meals instead; it can be really effective to prevent heartburn.

How to Enjoy Drinks Without Intensifying Heartburn?

Here's a checklist for reducing heartburn risk:

Drink between meals, not during them
Go for low-fat milk and juices that aren’t very acidic
If you're prone to acid reflux, avoid carbonated beverages
Choose herbal or caffeine-free teas
After drinking liquids, try to sit straight for at least half an hour
To reduce pressure on your stomach, sip slowly instead of gulping beverages
Drink in a balanced amount, as drinking a lot at a time can aggravate symptoms

Emotional & Social Aspects

Heartburn can interrupt both your meals and sleep patterns, causing you discomfort and affecting your mood. Nevertheless, it is normal to face these things daily. Stress can actually make heartburn worse, so taking care of your mental health is as crucial as modifying your lifestyle.

To help release stress, discuss what you are going through with your friends and family. Also, to help you feel better, plan meals together. Smart food habits, relaxation, and even simple lifestyle choices like walking after a meal can prevent symptoms. Dealing with heartburn isn't just about comforting your stomach; it's also about your overall health, feeling confident in your regular activities, and living a good life.

Liquids like juices, milk, or tea have varying impacts on heartburn depending on the level of fat, acidity, and caffeine. Being aware of the impact of beverages on your stomach can help you choose those that soothe instead of irritate. Simple things, such as choosing low-acid juice, drinking milk carefully, or opting for herbal tea, can actually make you feel better, more comfortable, and improve your overall well-being.

Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.

FAQs on How Different Types of Liquids Affect Heartburn Differently

Is water beneficial for acidity?
By diluting the stomach acid, water can temporarily ease the discomfort. But drinking too much while you’re eating may not be effective.
Is coffee worse than tea for heartburn?
Generally, yes. Coffee contains more caffeine, and it can loosen the lower oesophageal sphincter, intensifying reflux risk.
Can all herbal teas ease heartburn?
Most herbal teas, such as ginger, chamomile, and liquorice, are gentle. Skip the peppermint if it triggers heartburn, as it can relax the muscle in your oesophageal sphincter.