1. Alcohol may Trigger Acid Reflux
Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acids flow back up into the esophagus, causing pain and burning. Acid reflux is also referred to as heartburn and is a symptom of GERD. GERD (gastric esophageal reflux disease) can become a more serious condition and some people may need surgery to correct it. With acid reflux, the stomach may produce more acid than is necessary to digest the food. The stomach contains a sphincter muscle that opens and closes to allow food to pass. In acid reflux, the sphincter muscle may not completely close which in turn allows stomach acid to flow back up the esophagus. The combination of excess acid and a leaky sphincter muscle can cause acid reflux. In some people, alcohol can aggravate acid reflux. Alcohol causes the sphincter muscle to relax, which in turn causes more acid to leak and flow back up the esophagus.
2. Socializing Without Booze
When you go out to a restaurant or nightclub, you likely have a drink to socialize. You have a glass of wine with dinner or an after dinner drink. You can still have fun and socialize without booze. Instead of having wine with dinner, ask for a glass of sparkling water or apple cider. Instead of having cocktails with alcohol, ask for a Shirley Temple or Virgin Mary. Try non-alcoholic beer or wine as a substitute. If you decide to have alcohol, you can reduce the effect of acid reflux by limiting the amount of alcohol you drink. Cut the amount of alcohol in your drink by mixing it with tonic water or soda. Drink the alcohol slowly so your body has time to digest the alcohol and minimize acid reflux. If alcohol aggravates your acid reflux, make sure you don't drink before bedtime. Limit the last drink you have to two to three hours before bedtime, as lying down tends to worsen the symptoms of acid reflux.
3. Other Sources of Alcohol
Flavorings or extracts like vanilla may contain small amounts of alcohol. Although most flavorings and extracts don't have enough alcohol to cause acid reflux, it's best to be aware of it when eating foods highly flavored. Some cough syrups, mints and lozenges also can contain small amounts of alcohol. Some foods are cooked in wine or alcohol, including veal or chicken marsala and beef tips in wine. Some beef stroganoff recipes are made with wine and some marinara sauces have wine as well. If you are dining out, ask the waiter if the meal is prepared with alcohol to avoid the symptoms of acid reflux. Always carry antacids with you when dining out, in case your meal contains hidden alcohol.
