Sparkling water, also known as carbonated water, is often cited as a traditional home remedy for an upset stomach and queasiness. Deciding whether to use a fizzy drink for nausea comes down to understanding how carbonation interacts with the digestive system. The dissolved carbon dioxide can be both soothing and irritating, depending on the individual and the cause of the discomfort.
The Science Behind Carbonation and Stomach Relief
The belief that sparkling water helps relieve nausea stems from the physical effects of the dissolved carbon dioxide gas. When consumed, the gas expands in the stomach, creating a feeling of fullness that may suppress the urge to vomit. This sensation of gastric distention is thought to help calm the stomach lining.
The most immediate effect is the stimulation of burping, or eructation. Carbonation introduces gas into the upper digestive tract, and releasing this gas can relieve built-up pressure. For many people, a nauseous feeling is caused by excess air or gas trapped in the stomach, and releasing this pressure provides a temporary sensation of settling the stomach.
Studies involving individuals with dyspepsia, a condition that includes upper abdominal discomfort and nausea, have shown that carbonated water can sometimes alleviate symptoms better than plain water. While this research often uses mineral-rich sparkling water, the presence of carbonation itself plays a role. The bubbles can help modify the distribution of contents within the stomach, which may contribute to a feeling of relief in some cases.
When Sparkling Water Might Make Nausea Worse
While some find relief, carbonated water can aggravate symptoms for others. The gas introduced by the carbonation can lead to increased bloating, discomfort, and a sensation of being overly full. This occurs because the swallowed gas expands in the gastrointestinal tract, which can exacerbate the feeling of nausea.
Carbonation can also trigger or worsen acid reflux and heartburn. The pressure from the bubbles in the stomach can cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax or open. This allows stomach acid to flow backward into the esophagus, causing the burning sensation of heartburn.
Avoid sparkling waters that are highly sweetened or artificially flavored when ill. Added sugars, artificial sweeteners, or high acidity from flavorings like citric acid can irritate an already sensitive stomach lining. The potential negative effects of these additives often outweigh any benefit from the carbonation.
Other Hydration and Dietary Strategies for Nausea
If sparkling water proves unhelpful or causes greater discomfort, maintaining hydration with non-carbonated liquids is the priority to avoid dehydration. Plain water or clear broth should be consumed in small, frequent sips, as rapid intake can trigger vomiting. Electrolyte solutions are beneficial because they replace the sodium and potassium lost through vomiting or diarrhea.
Natural remedies have a long history of use and scientific backing for nausea management. Ginger contains active compounds called gingerols and shogaols that help block signals in the brain and gut that trigger nausea. It can be consumed as an herbal tea or in the form of crystallized ginger.
Peppermint, due to the menthol it contains, acts as a gastrointestinal muscle relaxant, which can ease spasms that contribute to queasiness. This can be effectively used as a tea or through aromatherapy by inhaling the essential oil.
Gentle dietary approaches can also help settle the stomach once liquids are tolerated. These include consuming bland, low-fiber foods such as:
- Saltine crackers
- Bananas
- Applesauce
- White rice