Understanding the Myth: Why is 7 up good when sick?

October 21, 2025 •

3 min read

For generations, 7UP has been a staple in the sick-day regimen, often recommended by parents and caregivers for upset stomachs. While this tradition is deeply ingrained in our collective memory, modern nutritional science and health experts offer a more nuanced perspective on the effectiveness and potential drawbacks of using sugary sodas for illness. Understanding the components of this classic beverage can shed light on its perceived benefits and guide you toward more hydrating and therapeutic options during recovery.

Quick Summary

The traditional use of 7UP for sickness stems from historical ingredients and perceived soothing effects of carbonation and sugar. It offers minimal, short-term relief by providing fluids and sugars but lacks essential electrolytes for proper rehydration. Healthier, more effective options like water, herbal teas, or oral rehydration solutions are better choices for recovery.

Key Points

7UP offers short-term comfort, not a cure: The traditional belief in 7UP's effectiveness for sickness stems from historical formulas and a strong placebo effect, not modern nutritional value.
Limited scientific benefits: Any relief comes from the carbonation, which can induce burping, and the mild acid-neutralizing effect of sodium citrate.
High sugar content is a major drawback: The large amount of sugar can worsen diarrhea and dehydration, and it's a poor source of real nutrition.
Lacks essential electrolytes: Unlike proper rehydration drinks, 7UP does not contain the vital electrolytes needed to replace minerals lost through vomiting or diarrhea.
Superior alternatives exist for effective recovery: Better choices include water, oral rehydration solutions, broths, and herbal teas, which provide proper hydration and nutrients without the high sugar load.
Best for mild, temporary symptoms, not severe illness: While it might be tolerated for minor stomach upset, it's not recommended for serious dehydration or persistent symptoms.
Consult a healthcare professional for persistent illness: For severe or lingering illness, relying on sugary drinks is not advised, and medical guidance should be sought.

The historical and psychological roots of the 7UP myth

The idea that 7UP is a remedy for illness has historical roots, as the original 1929 formula contained lithium citrate, a mood stabilizer. Although this ingredient was removed in 1950, the soda's reputation as a "medical" drink persisted. The psychological comfort and placebo effect of a familiar drink are significant when dealing with digestive issues, especially since childhood. Sipping a cold, fizzy drink can be calming and may help reduce anxiety, which can sometimes worsen stomach discomfort.

The limited scientific evidence behind its perceived benefits

The modern version of 7UP provides limited genuine medical benefits. Any perceived relief comes from a few factors, none of which substitute proper hydration or nutritional support.

Carbonation and mild stomach acid neutralization

Carbonation in sodas can promote burping, potentially relieving pressure from gas buildup and offering temporary comfort from bloating or nausea. Modern 7UP also contains sodium citrate, which can mildly help neutralize excess stomach acid, similar to some antacids, though less reliably.

Simple sugars for quick energy

The sugar in 7UP offers easily digestible carbohydrates for a quick energy boost when appetite is poor. This can help maintain blood glucose levels, but the high sugar content is also a major drawback.

Significant drawbacks of relying on 7UP for recovery

Using 7UP for hydration during illness, especially with severe dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea, can be detrimental. Health professionals advise against it due to:

Worsening dehydration: The high sugar content can draw fluid into the intestines, potentially worsening diarrhea. It is a poor substitute for water or electrolyte solutions.
Increased thirst: High sugar amounts can increase thirst in the long run.
Lack of essential electrolytes: Unlike oral rehydration solutions (ORS), 7UP lacks the necessary balance of sodium, potassium, and chloride to replenish electrolytes lost during sickness, which can be dangerous for those with significant fluid loss.
Exacerbating reflux: Carbonation can increase stomach pressure, potentially worsening symptoms for individuals with acid reflux or GERD.

Comparison of 7UP vs. superior hydration choices


Feature	7UP (Original)	Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS)	Broth (Chicken or Vegetable)	Herbal Tea (Ginger or Peppermint)
Primary Function	Tradition/Comfort/Temporary relief	Rapid and effective rehydration	Hydration and nutrient repletion	Soothing, symptom relief
Sugar Content	Very high (approx. 38g per 12oz)	Balanced with electrolytes	Low/None	Low/None (can add honey)
Electrolytes	Low (some sodium citrate)	High (sodium, potassium, etc.)	Moderate (sodium, some minerals)	Minimal
Calming Properties	Carbonation, psychological comfort	None (functional)	Warmth, flavor	Warmth, anti-nausea, congestion relief
Best For	Mild, temporary nausea (if tolerated)	Severe fluid loss (vomiting/diarrhea)	Poor appetite, sore throat	Nausea, sore throat, congestion

Safer and more effective alternatives for illness

Focus on proper rehydration and gentle, nutrient-dense options when sick. Recommended alternatives include:

Water: Best for hydration; sip slowly or use ice chips.
Oral Rehydration Solutions (ORS): Products like Pedialyte have the correct balance of sugars and electrolytes for effective fluid absorption, especially after vomiting or diarrhea.
Broth or Soup: Offers fluids, sodium, and nutrients; steam can help with congestion.
Herbal Teas: Ginger tea helps with nausea; peppermint and chamomile are soothing. Honey can help a sore throat.
Diluted Juices: Watered-down fruit juices offer flavor and calories (avoid citrus if irritating).
BRAT Diet: Bland foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are gentle when reintroducing solids.

Conclusion

The tradition of drinking 7UP when sick is a myth largely based on outdated information and a placebo effect. The temporary relief from sugar and carbonation is outweighed by the high sugar content and lack of electrolytes. For effective recovery and hydration, choose water, ORS, broths, or herbal teas. Make informed choices for better healing and consult a healthcare professional for severe or persistent symptoms.

For more on nutrition during illness, refer to resources like the Cleveland Clinic.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, drinking 7UP when sick is not considered a healthy choice, especially for rehydration. It is high in sugar, lacks essential electrolytes, and can potentially worsen symptoms like diarrhea.

Oral rehydration solutions (ORS) like Pedialyte are the best for treating dehydration from vomiting or diarrhea. Other good options include water, broth, or diluted fruit juice.

The belief started partly because the original 7UP recipe contained lithium citrate, a medicinal compound. The placebo effect and the comforting association with a childhood remedy also contribute to its reputation.

The carbonation in soda can cause burping, which may temporarily relieve pressure from gas in your stomach. However, it can also worsen symptoms for those with acid reflux by increasing stomach pressure.

Giving children sugary drinks like 7UP when they have diarrhea or vomiting is not recommended. The high sugar content can worsen diarrhea and delay recovery, and it is not an effective way to replenish lost salts and minerals.

Effective alternatives include water, herbal teas like ginger or peppermint tea, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions. Ginger is particularly known for its anti-nausea properties.

While making soda flat might reduce the risk of bloating, it does not change the high sugar content or add essential electrolytes. It is still a less effective option compared to water or an ORS for treating dehydration.