Heartburn, medically known as acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux, occurs when stomach contents flow backward into the esophagus. This happens because the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle separating the esophagus and stomach, relaxes inappropriately, allowing acidic stomach fluid to travel upward. Ginger ale is a long-standing home remedy for stomach upsets, but its commercial formulation often defeats the intended purpose. The effectiveness of ginger ale for heartburn is a contradiction, pitting the potential benefits of ginger against the counterproductive nature of the soda.
How Ginger Affects Digestion
The positive association between ginger and digestive relief stems from the ginger root, which contains bioactive compounds like gingerols and shogaols. These compounds are believed to act as prokinetic agents, helping to speed up gastric emptying. Accelerating the movement of contents out of the stomach and into the small intestine reduces the volume of material available to reflux into the esophagus. This mechanism is why ginger is traditionally used to alleviate indigestion and nausea. Ginger also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that may help soothe an irritated digestive tract.
The Unexpected Problem with Carbonation and Sugar
Commercial ginger ale is significantly different from a simple ginger root tea or extract, and its primary components often undermine ginger’s potential benefits.
Carbonation
Carbonation introduces gas into the stomach, causing gaseous distension. This increased pressure can force the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to open, directly triggering or worsening acid reflux. Studies show that carbonated beverages can lower the pressure of the LES and increase the frequency of transient LES relaxations.
Sugar and Acidity
The high sugar and acidity levels in most store-bought ginger ales pose a substantial problem for a sensitive esophagus. Commercial sodas are highly acidic, often having a pH between 2.5 and 3.5, which irritates the esophageal lining. The high concentration of refined sugar can also contribute to the relaxation of the LES, allowing stomach acid to move upward. Many popular brands contain very little actual ginger, meaning the negative effects of the carbonation and sugar outweigh any minimal positive influence.
Immediate Alternatives for Acid Reflux
Since commercial ginger ale is counterproductive, simple, non-irritating alternatives provide faster relief.
Posture and Pressure
Adjusting your body posture, such as sitting upright or standing, allows gravity to keep stomach contents down. Loosening tight clothing around the abdomen also helps reduce pressure on the stomach that promotes reflux.
Saliva and Medication
Chewing gum is an effective remedy because it stimulates saliva production. Saliva is slightly alkaline and contains bicarbonate, which helps neutralize acid in the esophagus. Swallowing the increased saliva washes acid back down into the stomach. For quick relief, over-the-counter antacids neutralize existing stomach acid, while H2 blockers and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) reduce the amount of acid the stomach produces over a longer period.