Which drink is best for acidity? Navigating your options

October 18, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2019 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, regular consumption of coffee, tea, and soda was associated with an increased risk of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) symptoms. Finding which drink is best for acidity is crucial for managing discomfort and preventing long-term issues. Opting for non-acidic and soothing beverages can provide significant relief from heartburn and other symptoms of acid reflux.

Quick Summary

Neutralizing stomach acid and soothing the digestive tract is key for managing heartburn and acid reflux. Many effective beverage choices exist, including water, alkaline water, herbal teas, and plant-based milks, that help alleviate symptoms. Avoiding acidic and carbonated drinks is also vital for preventing irritation and discomfort.

Key Points

Water is the safest choice: Plain, still water is the most fundamental and effective drink for diluting stomach acid and clearing the esophagus.
Alkaline drinks help neutralize acid: Beverages like almond milk, coconut water, and specifically manufactured alkaline water can help raise stomach pH and temporarily soothe symptoms.
Herbal teas provide a calming effect: Ginger and chamomile teas are excellent for their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help calm an irritated digestive tract.
Avoid carbonated and caffeinated drinks: Soda, coffee, and other fizzy or caffeinated beverages are common triggers that can increase stomach pressure and acid production, worsening reflux.
Be cautious with milk: While low-fat milk may provide temporary relief for some, the fat in milk can relax the LES for others, potentially leading to a rebound effect where more acid is produced.
Watch for individual triggers: Everyone's body reacts differently, so paying attention to how various drinks affect your symptoms is crucial for effective management.

The Science Behind Acid Reflux and Beverage Choices

Acid reflux, or gastroesophageal reflux (GER), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and the characteristic burning sensation known as heartburn. The lower esophageal sphincter (LES)—a muscle connecting the esophagus and stomach—can sometimes relax, allowing this backflow to happen. Certain drinks can exacerbate this issue by either being highly acidic, increasing stomach acid production, or relaxing the LES muscle.

Conversely, the right beverages can help manage and prevent symptoms in several ways:

Neutralizing Stomach Acid: Some drinks have an alkaline pH, which can help counteract the acidity of stomach contents.
Soothing the Esophagus: Certain ingredients can have a calming, anti-inflammatory effect on the irritated lining of the esophagus.
Promoting Digestion: Staying hydrated and consuming drinks that aid motility can help food move through the digestive system faster.

Best Drinks for Acidity Relief

Here are some of the most effective and widely recommended drinks to combat acidity:

Water: Plain, still water is perhaps the simplest and best remedy for acidity. It has a neutral pH of 7.0 and helps dilute stomach acid, flushing irritants from the esophagus. Drinking small sips throughout the day is an effective way to manage and prevent symptoms.
Herbal Teas: Many herbal teas offer a soothing effect on the digestive tract without the irritating caffeine found in black and green tea.
- Ginger Tea: Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory that helps soothe the stomach and reduce nausea. Its phenolic compounds can ease gastric contractions and protect the gastric lining.
- Chamomile Tea: Known for its calming properties, chamomile can help reduce inflammation and soothe an upset stomach.
- Licorice Tea: Deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is a specific form of licorice that can increase the mucus coating of the esophageal lining, protecting it from acid.
Coconut Water: Unsweetened coconut water is rich in electrolytes, including potassium, which helps promote a healthy pH balance in the body. It is naturally hydrating and has a low acidity, making it gentle on the stomach.
Plant-Based Milks: For those sensitive to dairy, plant-based milks offer a good alternative.
- Almond Milk: As an alkaline substance, almond milk can help neutralize stomach acid.
- Oat Milk: With its high fiber content and low fat, oat milk is often gentle on the stomach.
Aloe Vera Juice: The juice from the aloe vera plant has a soothing effect and can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus and stomach. Ensure you use a product specifically formulated for internal consumption.

Comparison Table: Acidity-Friendly Drinks


Drink	Acidity Level	Primary Benefit	Recommended For	Considerations
Water	Neutral (pH ~7)	Dilutes stomach acid and flushes irritants	All individuals with acid reflux	None, though sipping is better than gulping.
Alkaline Water	High (pH > 8)	Neutralizes stomach acid, inactivates pepsin	Those with severe or chronic acid reflux	Not a long-term cure; choose naturally alkaline water if possible.
Herbal Teas (Ginger, Chamomile, etc.)	Low	Soothes inflammation, calms stomach	General relief, nausea, stress-related reflux	Avoid peppermint tea, which can worsen symptoms.
Coconut Water	Low	Rich in electrolytes, promotes pH balance	Mild acidity, hydration during episodes	Choose unsweetened varieties to avoid added sugars.
Low-Fat Milk	Low to neutral	Temporary buffer between stomach lining and acid	Short-term relief for some people	Can have a rebound effect by stimulating more acid.
Almond Milk	Alkaline	Neutralizes stomach acid	Dairy-sensitive individuals seeking a calming drink	Ensure it's unsweetened and without added flavorings.

Drinks to Avoid with Acidity

Just as important as knowing what to drink is knowing what to avoid. Several beverages are known to trigger or worsen acid reflux symptoms.

Carbonated Drinks: The bubbles in soda, sparkling water, and other fizzy drinks can increase pressure in the stomach, forcing acid into the esophagus.
Caffeinated Drinks: Coffee, black tea, and energy drinks can stimulate the production of stomach acid and relax the LES.
Citrus Juices: Orange, grapefruit, and lemon juices are highly acidic and can irritate an already sensitive esophagus.
Alcohol: All forms of alcohol can relax the LES and affect digestion, increasing the risk of reflux.
Full-Fat Milk: While low-fat options can be helpful for some, full-fat milk is a common trigger because the fat can relax the LES.

Lifestyle Adjustments and When to See a Doctor

Beyond choosing the right drinks, adopting certain lifestyle changes is critical for managing acidity. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can prevent overfilling the stomach, which reduces pressure on the LES. It's also beneficial to remain upright for a few hours after eating and avoid lying down immediately. Elevating the head of your bed can help prevent nighttime reflux. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking also play a significant role.

If you experience frequent or severe symptoms, consult a healthcare professional. While dietary changes can be effective, they are not a cure for chronic conditions like GERD, which may require medical evaluation and treatment. The Cleveland Clinic notes that persistent symptoms may warrant stronger prescription medications.

Conclusion

For those seeking relief from acidity, the best approach involves a combination of smart hydration choices and conscious dietary adjustments. Water is a reliable and safe option for everyone, while alkaline water, herbal teas like ginger and chamomile, and plant-based milks offer targeted benefits for soothing inflammation and neutralizing acid. By avoiding common triggers such as carbonated and caffeinated beverages, and adopting positive lifestyle habits, you can significantly reduce the discomfort associated with acid reflux and promote better digestive health.

Visit Johns Hopkins Medicine to learn more about the link between diet and GERD.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, some studies suggest that alkaline water (with a pH of 8.8 or higher) may help inactivate pepsin, an enzyme involved in reflux, and offer acid-buffering capacity. It is important to note that individual responses vary, and it should not be considered a cure.

Milk's effect on heartburn is debated. While low-fat milk may offer temporary relief by buffering stomach acid, whole milk's high fat content can cause the lower esophageal sphincter to relax, potentially worsening symptoms. It is best to monitor your own reaction or opt for low-fat or plant-based alternatives.

Yes, ginger is a well-known digestive aid with anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger tea can help reduce inflammation and gastric contractions, which may prevent acid from flowing back into the esophagus.

Carbonated drinks increase pressure in the stomach due to the gas bubbles, which can force the esophageal sphincter to open and allow stomach acid to reflux. Avoiding them is a common recommendation for managing acid reflux.

It depends on the juice. Highly acidic juices like citrus (orange, grapefruit) and tomato can irritate the esophagus and worsen symptoms. Low-acid vegetable juices, such as carrot, aloe vera, or cucumber, are better choices.

For temporary relief during an acid reflux attack, standing up and taking small sips of plain water can help wash acid down the esophagus. Taking an over-the-counter antacid is another immediate-action option.

Water's neutral pH helps dilute the acidic contents of the stomach. Additionally, taking small, frequent sips can help clear the esophagus of any lingering acid, providing immediate relief from irritation.