The discomfort of acid reflux, often called heartburn, occurs when stomach contents flow backward into the esophagus. This happens because the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), a ring of muscle separating the stomach and the esophagus, relaxes when it should not, allowing acidic digestive juices to travel upward. Since acid reflux can be a recurring issue that may be indicative of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), many people look for quick, non-medicinal ways to soothe a sudden flare-up. Hard candy is sometimes considered a simple remedy, but the type of candy chosen is paramount, as some can help while others may worsen the irritation.
How Hard Candy Provides Temporary Relief
The primary benefit of sucking on a hard candy is the significant increase in saliva production it stimulates. Saliva is naturally alkaline, meaning it has a higher pH than the acidic contents of the stomach, effectively acting as a natural antacid. As the candy dissolves and you swallow the increased volume of saliva, it washes the stomach acid back down into the stomach. This process helps to clear the esophagus of irritating acid, providing temporary relief from the burning sensation. The frequent swallowing induced by the presence of the candy also mechanically moves any lingering acid down, aiding in the clearance process.
Recommended Ingredients and Flavors for Relief
When selecting a hard candy to combat reflux, the ingredients should be chosen for their soothing properties and low acidity. Ginger is widely recommended because it contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory effects that can soothe an irritated esophagus and digestive tract. Ginger may also help reduce the production of stomach acid and can support faster gastric emptying, which reduces the likelihood of acid regurgitation.
Hard candies that incorporate honey are also beneficial due to honey’s natural coating properties. Honey can create a temporary protective layer over the irritated lining of the esophagus, offering a soothing effect. For those who prefer a fruity taste, mild, non-citrus fruit flavors, like plain apple or certain berry varieties, are generally safer choices. It is also possible to find candy-like chewable tablets formulated with calcium carbonate, the active ingredient in many antacids, which works by neutralizing stomach acid directly. Licorice-flavored candies, especially those made with real licorice root, may also help to soothe digestive discomfort.
Ingredients and Candies That Can Trigger Reflux
While some hard candies can help, many common flavors and ingredients are known to aggravate acid reflux symptoms and should be strictly avoided. Strong mint flavors, such as peppermint and spearmint, are significant triggers because they can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES). When the LES relaxes, it creates an easier pathway for stomach acid to move back up into the esophagus, increasing the burning sensation.
Candies featuring high-acidity ingredients, particularly citrus flavors like lemon, lime, orange, or grapefruit, can directly irritate the esophagus. Furthermore, candies that are very high in fat, such as those with creamy centers or chocolate coatings, should be avoided. Fat delays the process of stomach emptying, which increases the pressure on the LES and keeps acidic contents in the stomach longer, raising the chance of reflux. Chocolate is a known trigger because it contains serotonin, a compound that can also cause the LES to relax. Additionally, an excessive intake of sugar, which is common in many candies, has been linked to worse GERD symptoms for some individuals.
When Hard Candy Is Not Enough
It is important to view hard candy as a temporary measure for relieving occasional, mild heartburn, not as a treatment for chronic acid reflux or GERD. The relief provided by increased saliva production is short-lived and only addresses the immediate symptom. If acid reflux is a frequent occurrence, relying solely on hard candy may mask a more serious underlying issue.
A person should stop using hard candy as a remedy and seek medical advice if symptoms become more frequent, severe, or if new symptoms develop, such as difficulty swallowing, unexplained weight loss, or persistent nausea. True management of GERD often requires prescription medication or significant lifestyle changes. These changes may include elevating the head of the bed during sleep, avoiding eating meals within three hours of bedtime, and identifying and eliminating specific dietary triggers.