The folk remedy of sipping ginger ale for an upset stomach or diarrhea is a practice passed down through generations. This belief stems from the known soothing properties of ginger root, a traditional treatment for nausea. While the intention is to alleviate discomfort and rehydrate, most commercial ginger ale products are formulated in a way that can actually make diarrhea symptoms worse. Understanding the ingredients and the body’s needs during diarrhea reveals why this popular home remedy is often counterproductive.
The Role of Ginger Versus Ginger Ale
The historical use of ginger for digestive issues is well-supported by science, particularly for nausea and vomiting. Fresh ginger root contains bioactive compounds, primarily gingerols, which accelerate gastric emptying and stimulate movement through the digestive tract. This action can help relieve indigestion and general stomach discomfort. Gingerols and related compounds, shogaols, also possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help protect the gastrointestinal tract lining.
The issue lies in the composition of the commercial beverage, which often bears little resemblance to the medicinal root. Most mass-market ginger ales contain very small amounts of actual ginger extract, sometimes as low as 0.05% to 0.5%. Instead of real ginger, the flavor is commonly derived from “natural flavors” or artificial ingredients. The minimal amount of ginger in these sodas is unlikely to provide the therapeutic effect associated with fresh ginger.
Why Commercial Soda Can Worsen Symptoms
When the digestive system is experiencing diarrhea, the primary concerns are dehydration and irritation, both exacerbated by commercial soda ingredients. The high sugar content is the most significant problem, as a typical soda can contains 30 to 40 grams of sugar, often high-fructose corn syrup. This high concentration of sugar creates a large osmotic load in the intestines.
Osmotic load refers to the concentration of dissolved particles the gut must process. When the small intestine is overwhelmed by unabsorbed sugar, it draws water from the body’s tissues into the intestinal lumen to dilute the sugars. This influx of water increases the volume of fluid in the colon, which worsens diarrhea and leads to further fluid loss.
Furthermore, the carbonation introduces gas into the gastrointestinal tract, causing increased bloating and uncomfortable abdominal cramping. While a flat soda is sometimes recommended, the sugar content still interferes with proper rehydration and intestinal function. The combination of high sugar and carbonation makes commercial ginger ale an ineffective choice during acute diarrhea.
Optimal Hydration Strategies for Diarrhea
The most important step in managing diarrhea is preventing dehydration by replacing lost fluid and electrolytes. Water alone is insufficient because it does not replenish lost sodium and potassium, which are essential for proper bodily function. The superior choice is an Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS), which contains a precise, balanced ratio of water, salt, and sugar.
The glucose and sodium in an ORS work together through sodium-glucose co-transport, which actively enhances water absorption in the small intestine. This balanced approach makes ORS products highly effective at restoring the body’s fluid balance and preventing severe dehydration. Other acceptable fluids include clear broths, which provide sodium, or diluted fruit juices, but these are not as effective as a properly formulated ORS.
Once hydration is established, gradually reintroducing bland, binding foods can help solidify stools. The traditional BRAT diet—bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast—offers foods low in fat and fiber, making them easy to digest. Bananas are particularly helpful as they contain potassium, which is often lost during diarrhea. Incorporating these components serves as a gentle way to transition back to a normal eating pattern.