“Should I have soda if I have acid reflux?”

There are a number of reasons to avoid. There are a number of reasons soda if you have gastroesophageal reflux disease. Most of these type beverages also contain caffeine which is known to decrease the tone of the lower esophageal sphincter. Caffeine should be avoided. In addition, the pH of most soda is in the 3 to 4 range, which is especially difficult for those who suffer from the LPR form of reflux. This is because it will reactivate pepsin and cause symptoms. And finally there is the carbonation which is in and of itself acidic, but also increases the volume in the stomach and therefore the yield pressure and promotes additional reflux. The double whammy that occurs with carbonation is not only does it cause reflux but the gaseous form of pepsin is expelled when the gas is expelled, particularly worsening the LPR form of reflux.

There is no specific contraindication to soda if you have reflux. But in general it is best to avoid high calorie, high fat and large meals. Liquids are handled by the stomach differently than solids. Liquids empty faster and probably have less effect at exacerbating reflux. Every individual is different, however, so if soda consistently causes you to feel more heartburn then it is best to avoid it.

Drinking carbonated beverages will make your reflux worse. The bubbles and caffeine will cause the lower esophageal sphincter to open allowing the stomach contents to go up into the esophagus.

With reflux you should avoid all sodas and caffeine. Eat small low fat meals and don’t eat within 3 hours of bedtime. Try elevating the head of ur bed frame a few inches. It will help

It is reasonable to avoid any caffeinated and mildly acidic beverages when you have acid reflux disease. Besides, the volume of fluid you take, particularly in the late evening, can increase your stomach content to enhance regurgitation with worsening acid reflux symptoms.

The sugar, sugar substitutes, and caffeine in soda usually make acid reflux worse.