Best Drinks That Help Acid Reflux: Best and Worst Drinks for Heartburn Relief

That uncomfortable burn rising from the chest after a simple sip can feel confusing and frustrating, especially when the drink was supposed to be refreshing or healthy. For people managing acid reflux or GERD, beverages can quietly become one of the biggest triggers or one of the most powerful tools for relief. Choosing the right drinks for acid reflux is not just about avoiding discomfort, it is about protecting the esophagus, calming acidity, and supporting long-term digestive health.

Most articles list a few “safe” drinks and stop there. This guide goes deeper by explaining why certain drinks heal while others trigger reflux, how the diaphragm and esophagus are involved, and how to build a reflux-friendly drink routine that actually works in daily life.

Understanding the Problem: How Drinks Trigger Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. The lower esophageal sphincter and diaphragm normally work together as a barrier. Certain drinks weaken this barrier, increase stomach acid, or raise pressure in the stomach, making reflux and heartburn more likely.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, common reflux triggers include acidic beverages, carbonation, caffeine, and alcohol. These drinks irritate the esophagus lining and worsen symptoms such as chest burning, throat discomfort, and chronic acidity.

The right drinks, on the other hand, can dilute acid, improve digestion, and support healing in people with GERD.

Best Drinks to Relieve Acid Reflux and Heartburn

1. Water

Plain water remains the most underrated drink for acid reflux relief. It helps dilute stomach acid and supports proper digestion without irritating the esophagus.

Tips:

• Sip water between meals rather than during large meals
• Choose room temperature water to reduce stomach pressure

Research from Johns Hopkins Medicine highlights hydration as a key factor in managing heartburn symptoms.

2. Herbal Teas (Non-Caffeinated)

Herbal teas can soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation when chosen carefully.

Best options:

• Chamomile tea for calming the stomach lining
• Ginger tea for improving digestion and reducing reflux episodes
• Licorice root tea (DGL form) to support esophageal healing

Avoid mint-based teas, as peppermint can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and worsen reflux.

3. Low-Fat Milk or Plant-Based Alternatives

Low-fat dairy or unsweetened almond milk can temporarily buffer stomach acid and reduce burning sensations.

Best choices:

• Low-fat or skim milk
• Unsweetened almond milk
• Oat milk without added oils

High-fat milk products should be avoided as fat delays stomach emptying and increases reflux risk.

4. Aloe Vera Juice (Purified and Low-Acid)

Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe irritation in the esophagus.

Important notes:

• Use only purified aloe vera juice made for internal use
• Limit intake to small amounts
• Avoid products with citric acid

A study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests aloe vera may reduce GERD symptoms when used appropriately.

5. Coconut Water

Coconut water is low in acidity and rich in electrolytes, making it gentler on the stomach compared to fruit juices.

Choose:

• Unsweetened versions
• Small servings to avoid bloating

Worst Drinks for Heartburn or Acid Reflux

1. Coffee and Caffeinated Beverages

Caffeine increases stomach acid production and relaxes the esophageal sphincter, making reflux more likely.

Includes:

• Coffee
• Energy drinks
• Strong black or green tea

Decaffeinated options may still trigger symptoms in sensitive individuals. 

2. Carbonated Drinks

Carbonation increases pressure in the stomach and pushes acid upward into the esophagus.

Avoid:

• Soda
• Sparkling water
• Fizzy energy drinks

Even sugar-free versions can worsen GERD symptoms.

3. Citrus Juices

Orange, lemon, and grapefruit juices are highly acidic and can irritate the esophagus lining.

These drinks are among the most common reflux triggers according to the American College of Gastroenterology.

4. Alcohol

Alcohol relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter and increases acid production.

High-risk options:

• Wine
• Beer
• Spirits

Even small amounts can trigger heartburn in people with GERD.

5. Tomato-Based and Spiced Drinks

Tomato juice and spicy beverages increase acidity and worsen reflux symptoms.

Lifestyle Tips for Managing Reflux Through Drinks

• Drink slowly and avoid gulping large volumes
• Avoid drinking large amounts close to bedtime
• Pair beverages with reflux-friendly meals
• Maintain upright posture after drinking
• Focus on consistency rather than occasional fixes

For deeper guidance, internal resources such as Heartburn vs Acid Reflux: What’s the Difference and How Long Does Heartburn Last can help clarify symptoms and patterns.

When to See a Doctor

Frequent heartburn, difficulty swallowing, chronic cough, or symptoms lasting more than two weeks may indicate GERD or complications involving the esophagus. Medical evaluation is important to rule out esophageal damage or other digestive disorders.

Trusted medical guidance can be found through organizations like the Mayo Clinic and the National Institutes of Health.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making dietary or lifestyle changes for acid reflux or GERD.

Conclusion

The right drinks for acid reflux can calm acidity, protect the esophagus, and support long-term healing. The wrong ones quietly worsen symptoms and delay relief. By understanding how beverages interact with stomach acid, the diaphragm, and digestion, managing heartburn becomes far more achievable. Small, consistent changes often bring the biggest relief.