What drink gets rid of GERD? A guide to soothing and aggravating beverages

October 6, 2025 •

5 min read

According to the American College of Gastroenterology, up to 20% of the U.S. population experiences GERD. While no drink can cure the condition, many can significantly help manage symptoms and soothe irritation by diluting stomach acid or providing a protective barrier, while others can make it much worse.

Quick Summary

This guide outlines the best and worst drinks for managing acid reflux, explaining how beverages like ginger tea and plant-based milks can help, and why coffee and soda should be avoided. It provides practical tips for incorporating soothing liquids into a diet for effective GERD relief.

Key Points

Water is Key: Plain water dilutes stomach acid and provides quick, temporary relief from heartburn by washing irritants down the esophagus.
Choose Herbal Teas Wisely: Ginger, chamomile, and licorice teas can soothe inflammation and aid digestion, but avoid mint teas, as they can worsen reflux.
Opt for Plant-Based Milks: Low-fat, alkaline alternatives like almond and oat milk are typically gentler on the stomach than high-fat dairy, which can relax the LES.
Natural Neutralizers: Unsweetened coconut water and pure aloe vera juice contain electrolytes and compounds that can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce inflammation.
Avoid Common Triggers: Steer clear of acidic (citrus juices), carbonated, and caffeinated drinks, as well as alcohol, which are all known to aggravate GERD symptoms.
Time Your Drinks: For best results, sip drinks slowly between meals and avoid consuming large quantities of any liquid within a few hours of lying down.
Consider ACV with Caution: While some report relief from diluted apple cider vinegar, it is highly acidic and should be used cautiously, if at all, as evidence is mixed.

The Best Drinks for Soothing GERD Symptoms

When managing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a primary goal is to minimize esophageal irritation and control the stomach's acidity. Choosing the right drinks is a simple but effective strategy. Many beverages can help by diluting stomach acid, promoting better digestion, or offering a soothing effect on the irritated esophageal lining.

Water

Pure, plain water is beneficial when managing GERD. It has a neutral pH, which can help temporarily raise the stomach's pH and dilute stomach acid. This is particularly helpful when you experience heartburn, as sipping water can wash stomach acid back down into your stomach and provide immediate, temporary relief. For the best effect, sip water throughout the day rather than drinking large quantities at once, which could distend the stomach and increase pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

Herbal Teas

Certain herbal teas are renowned for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. However, it is important to avoid teas with mint, as peppermint can relax the LES and worsen reflux.

Ginger tea: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps soothe gastrointestinal irritation. It can also help food move more quickly through the digestive tract, reducing the time for acid to reflux.
Chamomile tea: Known for its calming properties, chamomile can help reduce inflammation and ease stomach issues. It may also help promote relaxation before bedtime, which can be beneficial for nighttime reflux.
Licorice tea: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) tea can help increase the mucus coating on the esophageal lining, creating a protective barrier against stomach acid.

Plant-Based Milks

For those who experience issues with dairy, or simply want an alternative, plant-based milks are excellent choices. Many are naturally alkaline and low in fat, making them less likely to trigger reflux.

Almond milk: This is often recommended for GERD because it is alkaline and can help neutralize stomach acid.
Oat milk: Like almond milk, oat milk is a low-fat, dairy-free alternative that is gentler on the digestive system than full-fat cow's milk.
Soy milk: A good low-fat option, soy milk can also be a gentle choice for those with sensitive stomachs.

Coconut Water

Unsweetened coconut water is a natural beverage that can help manage GERD symptoms. It is a source of electrolytes like potassium, which aid in maintaining the body's pH balance. It is also naturally hydrating and low in acidity, helping to neutralize excess stomach acid.

Aloe Vera Juice

Similar to the gel used for sunburns, aloe vera juice can have a soothing effect on the inflamed lining of the stomach and esophagus. It is important to choose a brand that is pure and free from added sugars or artificial flavors, as these can be triggers. Always consult a healthcare provider before regularly using aloe vera juice.

Drinks to Avoid with Acid Reflux

Just as certain drinks can help, others are known to trigger or exacerbate GERD symptoms. Avoiding these is a critical step in managing the condition.

Coffee and other caffeinated beverages: Caffeine relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter, making it easier for stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus. While some people tolerate small amounts, many find it helpful to switch to herbal teas.
Carbonated drinks: The bubbles in sodas and sparkling water expand in the stomach, increasing internal pressure and forcing the LES open. These drinks are also often acidic, further contributing to irritation.
Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages relax the LES and can also damage the lining of the stomach and esophagus, increasing the risk of acid reflux. Experts often recommend avoiding alcohol completely if you have GERD.
Citrus juices: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are highly acidic and can directly irritate the esophagus. A better option is non-citrus juices from fruits like melons or carrots.
Peppermint and spearmint tea: While many herbal teas are beneficial, mint varieties can relax the LES, which is counterproductive for managing acid reflux.
Full-fat dairy: The high-fat content in full-fat milk and other dairy products takes longer to digest, which can increase acid production and delay gastric emptying, both of which worsen reflux.

How to Incorporate GERD-Friendly Drinks into Your Diet

Integrating soothing drinks into your daily routine is about more than just what you choose; it’s also about how and when you drink them. Small changes can make a big difference.

Best Practices for Hydration with GERD

Sip slowly and frequently: Instead of gulping down large amounts of fluid, take small sips throughout the day. This keeps you hydrated without overloading your stomach.
Avoid drinking with meals: Drinking large volumes of liquid during a meal can increase stomach volume and pressure. Try to drink fluids either 30 minutes before or after eating to allow for proper digestion.
Don't drink before bed: Refrain from drinking any liquids for at least two to three hours before lying down. Gravity helps keep acid in your stomach when you are upright, but lying down can make reflux worse.
Listen to your body: Keep a food and drink journal to track what affects you. Everyone’s triggers are different, and what works for one person may not work for another.

A Comparison of GERD-Friendly Drinks


Drink	Key Benefit	Caveat/Note
Water	Dilutes stomach acid and flushes irritants.	Avoid large quantities at once to prevent stomach distention.
Ginger Tea	Anti-inflammatory properties soothe stomach lining and promote gastric emptying.	Use in moderation, as too much ginger can sometimes be a trigger.
Chamomile Tea	Calming effects reduce inflammation and help with sleep.	Ensure it does not contain mint, which can relax the LES.
Almond Milk	Alkaline nature can help neutralize stomach acid.	Choose unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars, which can be irritating.
Oat Milk	Low in fat and easy to digest; less likely to trigger reflux than full-fat dairy.	Ensure it is unsweetened and free of other irritants.
Coconut Water	Rich in electrolytes to maintain pH balance and neutralize acid.	Stick to unsweetened, natural coconut water.
Aloe Vera Juice	Soothes inflammation in the esophagus and stomach lining.	Choose a pure, sugar-free brand and consult a doctor before regular use.

Conclusion: More than Just a Drink

While knowing what drink gets rid of GERD and what to avoid is a powerful tool for managing symptoms, it is just one component of a holistic approach. Effective long-term management of GERD requires lifestyle adjustments, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating smaller meals, and not lying down immediately after eating. The right dietary choices, including incorporating soothing beverages and avoiding triggers, are essential for finding relief and improving your overall digestive health.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized advice regarding GERD management and before making significant dietary changes.

For more detailed information on GERD management, you can explore the resources offered by the American College of Gastroenterology.

Frequently Asked Questions

Milk's effect on GERD depends on its fat content. Low-fat or nonfat milk can temporarily buffer stomach acid, but full-fat milk can worsen symptoms because fat relaxes the lower esophageal sphincter. Plant-based options like almond or oat milk are often a safer choice.

Coffee, both caffeinated and decaffeinated, can be a common GERD trigger because caffeine can relax the LES, allowing acid to reflux more easily. Many people with GERD find it beneficial to switch to herbal teas or other low-acid alternatives.

The evidence for apple cider vinegar's effectiveness is mixed and largely anecdotal. While some people find relief, its high acidity can also irritate the esophagus. If you try it, always dilute a small amount in water to minimize risk.

Carbonated drinks increase pressure in the stomach due to the dissolved gas. This pressure can force the lower esophageal sphincter open, allowing stomach acid to enter the esophagus and trigger reflux.

It is best to avoid highly acidic citrus juices like orange and grapefruit juice. Instead, choose low-acid juices from fruits and vegetables such as carrots, melons (like watermelon or cantaloupe), or aloe vera juice.

Ginger tea is generally safe and often recommended due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, a small portion of people may find that ginger worsens their heartburn. It's best to start with a small amount to see how your body reacts.

No, it's often better to avoid drinking large amounts of water with meals. Large volumes of fluid can distend the stomach, increasing pressure on the LES. Instead, sip water slowly between meals or wait until about 30 minutes after eating.