Heartburn is uncomfortable. In the case of minor symptoms, the right drink can often help to neutralize the stomach acid and alleviate the symptoms.
Almost every second adult knows the symptom of heartburn. It describes a burning sensation behind the breastbone. Acidic stomach contents, which rise up the esophagus, are responsible for the unpleasant burning sensation.
Normally, a circular muscle reliably closes the stomach. In the case of heartburn, this locking mechanism is disrupted. Stomach contents can push up into the esophagus – in some affected people even into the oral cavity. This backflow, also called reflux, attacks the mucous membrane there and causes pain. Heartburn is usually harmless. The most common condition that causes heartburn is reflux disease. Stronger and more frequent heartburn should therefore be clarified by a doctor.
What helps against heartburn?
You can usually counteract mild heartburn by changing your diet. Greasy foods, spicy dishes, heavy meals just before bedtime, acidic fruits, fizzy drinks, caffeine and alcohol all contribute to heartburn. In addition, obesity and smoking are important risk factors for heartburn. In many cases, a drink can help against mild acute heartburn. Drinks against heartburn have the advantage that they are well tolerated and can be found in almost every kitchen.
1. Still mineral water
Gastroenterologists and internists recommend drinking still mineral water if you have heartburn. But why is still mineral water effective against heartburn? “What matters is not whether the mineral water is ‘still’, but whether it is rich in hydrogen carbonate. Hydrogen carbonate acts as an acid buffer,” explains ecotrophologist Brigitte Neumann from Uttenreuth. “A healing water with more than 1,300 milligrams of hydrogen carbonate per liter is considered effective against heartburn. Most of these healing waters are ‘still’ water.”
2. Milk
A few sips of milk for heartburn are also a popular home remedy. The proteins and fat contained in milk, but also in yoghurt drinks, can have a soothing effect, as they have a neutralizing effect on the acidic chyme. “It is best to choose whole milk, which has a higher fat content than other milk. You must try whether it has a buffering effect against stomach acid. Some sufferers report an improvement, while for others the home remedy for heartburn does not help,” says Neumann.
3. Healing Earth
According to the nutritionist, a real insider tip against heartburn is warm water with healing earth. While the water dilutes the stomach acid and flushes the esophagus, the healing clay helps to bind the stomach acid. A warm millet drink can also help. “To do this, boil a tablespoon of millet flour with a quarter of a liter of boiling water, season with a good pinch of salt and let the drink steep for a few minutes. Then drink it warm and in small sips,” recommends Neumann. “The millet has a relaxing effect and provides silicon-containing silicic acid that can bind stomach acid.”
4. and 5. Oat drink and almond milk
Oat drink and almond drink are also suitable, says Neumann. Alternatively, you can eat a little oatmeal or slowly chew four to five almonds.
How effective are drinks for heartburn?
There are hardly any medically and scientifically verified findings on the subject of drinks and heartburn. “That’s why there’s a lot of empirical knowledge circulating here too – but that doesn’t need to offend anyone. What’s good for the person concerned and heals is right. So try out what works for you,” says Neumann.
What Drinks Make Heartburn Worse?
It is also helpful to avoid drinks that promote heartburn. Drinks that stimulate increased production of gastric acid, weaken the circular muscle and promote belching include caffeinated drinks such as coffee, black tea or green tea, fruit teas as well as carbonated drinks and drinks rich in sugar. Alcohol, especially white wine, can also promote heartburn due to the acid it contains.
Tip: Always drink a large glass of water with your espresso or glass of wine – ideally at room temperature.
Heartburn: How often is normal?
According to the Deutsche Gastro-Liga e.V., mild heartburn once or twice a week is tolerated by most people without specific treatment measures or can be avoided by not eating certain foods and beverages that promote heartburn. According to the gastroenterologists, however, more frequent and severe symptoms should be clarified and treated by a doctor. Repeated exposure to hydrochloric acid can cause permanent damage to the esophagus. The risk of esophageal cancer also increases.
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