Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD, is responsible for causing symptoms such as heartburn, bile regurgitation, belching and difficult swallowing. If you have GERD, you may find that certain body positions, such as bending or lying down, cause your symptoms to worsen. By monitoring your posture and altering your eating habits, you may be able to find some relief from GERD. Several beverages are associated with triggering the symptoms of GERD.
Alcohol
Alcohol can cause laxity of the lower esophageal sphincter, a valve that separates the stomach from the esophagus. When this valve doesn't close properly, the contents of the stomach can pass back up through it. Bile and alcohol can then splash into the esophagus and cause irritation of its mucus membrane. GERD sufferers who drink heavily and smoke cigarettes are at an increased risk of esophageal cancer, the University of Maryland Medical Center states.
Coffee
The caffeine in coffee can cause laxity in the lower esophageal sphincter, which allows acid reflux to occur. But decaffeinated coffee isn't safe for GERD patients either, as coffee is highly acidic and has been shown to irritate the lining of the esophagus.
Acidic Juices
Even healthy beverages can sometimes cause problems if you have GERD. Citrus juices are high in acid and are known irritants for GERD. Tomatoes are also highly acidic, and as such, tomato juice should be avoided if you have GERD.
Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages may cause an exacerbation of symptoms if you have GERD. The carbonation can increase the pressure in the stomach, placing a strain on the lower esophageal sphincter.
Mint Tea
Most herbal teas are fine for people with GERD. Mint teas are an exception to this however, as they may increase GERD symptoms by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends that those with GERD should avoid spearmint and peppermint products.
Hot Chocolate
Chocolate of any kind may be off-limits for some who suffer from GERD. Methylxanthine, a substance found in chocolate, can decrease the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, causing it to relax. This allows digestive fluids to be regurgitated into the esophagus and cause heartburn.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- San Francisco State University Student Health Center: Relief for GERD
- University of Arizona: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
- University of Illinois McKinley Health Center: General Characteristics of GERD
- Penn State: Milton S. Hershey Medical Center College of Medicine: Reflux
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