Home Blog Home and Wellness Does drinking water help with heartburn?

Does drinking water help with heartburn?

by Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated January 23, 2024
Have you ever experienced the fiery feeling in your chest and wondered if a glass of water is the savior you desperately need? We all look for ways to relieve heartburn caused by stomach acid touching inappropriate areas of the stomach. Does water have the ability to put out fire?
In this blog, we'll unravel the mystery behind this preferential treatment. Is the beverage you drink every day, that you take for granted, a secret weapon against the pain of heartburn, or is it just a small splash in a vast ocean of solutions? Join us as we explore the territory of water, the sources of hydration, and the role water can play in controlling heartburn.

Heartburn: What is it?

Acid reflux is the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus and is the cause of heartburn, a common digestive disorder that affects millions of people around the world.
A burning sensation in the chest is characteristic of heartburn. While spicy foods or late-night indulgences may occasionally trigger heartburn, it is important to note that recurring episodes of heartburn can have serious consequences.
gastric acid reflux
Some simple treatments can relieve stomach discomfort that help reduce the pain. These medications have a sedative effect as they are triggered by foods that are too hot or consumed late at night. On the other hand, those who experience heartburn on a regular basis must seek the advice of a medical professional to treat the underlying cause of the condition and avoid the possible consequences associated with chronic acid reflux.

Gerd Explains

One of these digestive system disorders is called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This happens when the acid produced in your stomach flows back into your esophagus, which is your food passage. The most typical symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is heartburn.
Gastritis is a disease that occurs when stomach acid backs up into the food ducts. When food passes from the bottom of the esophagus into the stomach, the muscles at the bottom open and allow the food to pass into the stomach. To keep the food in the stomach, the stomach closes.
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is the name of this special muscle. When the lower esophageal sphincter relaxes too often or for too long, acid can build up in the esophagus. Heartburn is a result of this and can also cause damage.
a woman drinking water

Does drinking water improve heartburn?

Drinking water can relieve the symptoms of heartburn through several different processes. First, water helps dilute stomach acid, which reduces the irritation of the esophagus from stomach acid. This relieves the burning sensation that is usually associated with heartburn.
In addition, the act of drinking water helps flush intestinal acid back to its proper place, the stomach. Inflammation and irritation can be caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, which can lead to a feeling of heartburn. Water helps promote the absorption of acids into the stomach, and the body's natural digestive process can neutralize the acid.
a man covering his stomach
In general, sticking to drinking water is crucial for maintaining a healthy digestive system. The buildup of stomach acid can lead to dehydration, which increases the likelihood of heartburn. Sticking to drinking water helps maintain healthy digestive function, thereby reducing the risk of heartburn and other digestive problems.
The answer to the question of whether water can relieve heartburn is yes. However, it is important to remember that not all beverages provide the same level of comfort when it comes to relieving the symptoms of heartburn.

Benefits of Drinking Filtered Water

Realizing that not all types of water are equally effective at relieving heartburn is an essential step in the process. Tap water contains contaminants that can worsen heartburn symptoms. Choosing purified water is the best choice.
An important function of filtered water is to remove contaminants and minerals that can lead to the onset of symptoms associated with heartburn. In the long run, purchasing a water filter can be good for your health.

Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System: Waterdrop G3P800

The G3P800 has been tested by an accredited third-party laboratory (SGS). By using 9-stage filtration, it can effectively reduce heavy metals such as PFAS, fluoride, lead, chromium, arsenic, iron, radium, calcium, salts such as nitrate and chloride, and large particles.
It is estimated that the new LED chips can successfully eliminate up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses. Compared with traditional reverse osmosis systems, the machine has a state-of-the-art water distribution technology that increases water saving by 12 times. For every three cups of filtered water produced, only one cup of wastewater is used.

Is Milk Beneficial for Heartburn?

The calming effect of milk on our bodies is soothing, and this image perpetuates the concept that milk can be used to treat heartburn. On the other hand, the facts are somewhat different; milk is not a cure-all for heartburn. Although it is a rich source of calcium and vitamin D, it does not often relieve heartburn.
the woman who drinks milk
Incredibly, high-fat milk, such as whole milk, often plays a role in promoting heartburn, increasing the severity of symptoms after they have already manifested. Although milk is not a cure-all, it is important to thoroughly understand its effects on heartburn in order to effectively control symptoms.

reflux of stomach acid and heartburn

One of the most common causes of acid reflux is the valve that connects the stomach to the esophagus malfunctioning, which is defined as stomach acid entering the esophagus in the opposite direction. This degeneration of the valves allows stomach acid to flow upwards, which can lead to various symptoms as well as an increased risk of problems.
Because stomach acid is corrosive, it irritates the inner walls of the esophagus, often causing inflammation. This inflammation can manifest as discomfort, the feeling of more severe pain from the burning, known as heartburn. Heartburn is a common term for this discomfort. Long-term or frequent acid reflux can be a factor in the development of more serious health conditions such as Barrett's esophagus or esophagitis.
lying on the sofa

Treating Heartburn at Home

Avoid lying down immediately after eating

When a person lies down and the stomach is full of food, acid reflux can occur, which worsens the symptoms of heartburn. If you want your stomach to have enough time to empty, you should avoid eating two to three hours before bedtime.

Resist the urge to eat too much or too quickly

A large amount of food in the stomach can put extra pressure on the valves that prevent stomach acid from entering the esophagus, especially if you do it before bed. This increases the likelihood that you will experience acid reflux and heartburn.

Determine your weight and take steps to reduce it

If you are overweight, you are more likely to suffer from acid reflux and heartburn as this can put more pressure on your stomach. Eating a balanced diet and getting 150 minutes of physical exercise per week are the first two steps to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and losing extra pounds.

Wear loose clothing

If you are prone to heartburn, choose loose clothing. Wearing restrictive clothing or belts that are too tight can cause pressure on your abdomen, which can worsen your symptoms.
citrus fruits

Recommendations for preventing heartburn

  • It is recommended to avoid garlic, onions and shallots as they can cause heartburn.
  • Although chocolate is delicious, it should be avoided as it can worsen the symptoms of heartburn.
  • It is recommended to avoid citrus fruits and tomatoes, especially tomato-based products, as they can cause heartburn-related pain.
  • To avoid worsening heartburn, caution must be exercised when consuming hot or fatty foods.
  • One of the most critical factors in controlling and reducing the incidence of heartburn is careful food selection and choosing appropriate alternatives.
  • These measures contribute to the overall comfort of the digestive system and help prevent symptoms associated with heartburn.

Share


Share