Does Drinking Water Help Heartburn?
by Dr. Jonathan Doyle - Updated January 09, 2024
Ever experienced a burning sensation in your chest and pondered whether or not a simple glass of water may be the savior you urgently require? We are all looking for relief from Heartburn caused by stomach acid coming into contact with the improper area of the stomach. Does water have the ability to extinguish the fire?
In this blog, we will uncover the enigma beneath the favored treatment. Does the beverage you consume daily, which you take for granted, constitute the secret weapon against the pain of Heartburn, or is it only a little splash in the enormous sea of solutions? Join us as we explore the realm of water, a source of hydration, and the possible function that water may play in bringing the flames of Heartburn under control.
Heartburn: What Is It?
Acid reflux , which is the backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus, is the cause of Heartburn, a common digestive condition that affects millions of people all over the world.
A burning feeling in the chest characterizes Heartburn. While spicy meals or late-night indulgences might occasionally cause Heartburn, it is essential to note that recurrent episodes of Heartburn can lead to significant consequences.
Several simple cures may relieve an unsettled stomach, which can help ease pain. These medicines have a calming effect because they are triggered by foods that are too hot or consumed late at night. On the other hand, those who have regular Heartburn must seek the counsel of a medical professional in order to treat the underlying reasons for the condition and to avoid the possible consequences that are linked with chronic acid reflux.
GERD Explained
One of the digestive disorders is known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) . This condition arises when the acid produced in your stomach rushes backward into your esophagus, which is your food pipe. The most typical symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is Heartburn.
Gastritis is a condition that occurs when the acid from your stomach flows backward into your food pipe. When food travels from the bottom of the esophagus to the stomach, a muscle at the bottom opens up to allow it to enter the stomach. To retain food in the stomach, it shuts.
The lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is the name given to this particular muscle. Acid may accumulate in your esophagus if your lower esophageal sphincter relaxes too often or excessively long. Heartburn is the result of this, and it may also cause harm.
Does Consuming Water Improve Heartburn?
There are several different processes via which drinking water might give relief from the symptoms of Heartburn. In the beginning, water helps dilute stomach acid, which reduces the irritation stomach acid causes to the esophagus. As a result, the burning feeling often associated with Heartburn is alleviated.
In addition, the act of drinking water assists in the process of flushing intestinal acid back into its appropriate location, which is inside the stomach. Inflammation and irritation can be caused by the reflux of stomach acid into the esophagus, which may result in sensations of Heartburn. Water helps facilitate the movement of acid into the stomach, where the body’s natural digestive processes may neutralize it.
Consuming water consistently is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system generally. The buildup of acid in the stomach may contribute to dehydration, which in turn increases the likelihood of experiencing Heartburn. Consuming water consistently helps to maintain healthy digestive function, which in turn reduces the risk of experiencing Heartburn and other digestive difficulties.
The answer to the question of whether or not water can alleviate Heartburn is yes. However, it is essential to remember that not all drinks provide the same degree of comfort when alleviating the symptoms of Heartburn.
Advantages of Drinking Filtered Water
Recognizing that not all types of water are equally suitable for alleviating Heartburn is an essential step in the process. The water from the tap contains pollutants that can worsen the symptoms of Heartburn. Choosing water that has been cleansed is the best option.
Related: Is Tap Water Safe to Drink ?
A significant function of filtered water is to eliminate pollutants and minerals that may contribute to the emergence of symptoms associated with Heartburn. Purchasing a water filter may prove to be beneficial to your health in the long term.
Reverse Osmosis Water Filtration System: Waterdrop G3P800
The G3P800 has been tested by an approved third-party laboratory (SGS). It can efficiently reduce PFAS, fluoride, heavy metals like lead, chromium, arsenic, iron, radium, calcium, salts such as nitrate and chloride, and big particles by using 9-stage filtration.
It is estimated that the new LED chip may successfully eliminate up to 99.9 percent of germs and viruses. Compared to a conventional RO system, this machine uses cutting-edge water dispensing technology, which results in a water conservation rate that is twelve times higher. The amount of wastewater consumed is just one cup for every three cups of filtered water generated.
Is Milk Beneficial for Heartburn?
The reassuring picture of milk’s calming effects on our bodies has perpetuated the concept that milk may be used as a cure for Heartburn over time. On the other hand, the truth is somewhat different; milk is not a panacea for Heartburn in every single case. Even though it is an abundant source of calcium and vitamin D, it does not often relieve those suffering from Heartburn.
Unbelievably, high-fat milk, such as whole milk, often functions as a frequent promoter of Heartburn, which increases the severity of symptoms after they have already shown themselves. Although milk is not a panacea, it is essential to be thoroughly aware of its effects on heartburn to manage symptoms effectively.
Acid Reflux and Heartburn
One of the most common causes of acid reflux, defined by the passage of stomach acid into the esophagus in the opposite direction, is a valve connecting the stomach and the malfunctioning food pipe. The deterioration of this valve makes it possible for stomach acid to travel upward, which may result in a variety of symptoms as well as an increased risk of problems.
Since stomach acid is corrosive, it irritates the lining of the esophagus, which often leads to inflammation. This inflammation may appear as discomfort, ranging from a burning feeling to more severe pain called Heartburn. Heartburn is a frequent term for this kind of discomfort. Acid reflux that lasts for an extended time or occurs often may be a factor in developing more significant health conditions, such as Barrett’s esophagus or esophagitis.
Heartburn Treatment at Home
Try to Avoid Laying Down Immediately after Eating
When a person is lying down with their stomach full of food, it may create acid reflux and worsen heartburn symptoms. If you want your stomach to have plenty of time to empty, you should avoid eating within two to three hours of going to bed.
Resist the Impulse to Consume too Much or to Eat too Rapidly
Having a significant quantity of food in your stomach may put extra pressure on the valve that keeps stomach acid out of your esophagus, and this is particularly true if you do it soon before bed. This increases the likelihood that you may have acid reflux and Heartburn.
Identify Your Weight and Take Action to Reduce It
It is more likely that you will get acid reflux and Heartburn if you are overweight since it puts more strain on your stomach. Consuming a well-balanced diet and engaging in physical exercise for one hundred fifty minutes each week are the first two stages in achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and shedding extra weight.
Put on Loose-fitting Clothes
If you are prone to experiencing Heartburn, you should choose loose-fitting clothing. Wearing restrictive clothing or a belt that is too tight might put pressure on your stomach, which may worsen your symptoms.
Suggestions to Prevent Heartburn
- It is advisable to avoid garlic, onions, and shallots since they can cause Heartburn.
- Despite its deliciousness, chocolate should be avoided since it can potentially exacerbate heartburn symptoms.
- It is advisable to avoid citrus fruits and tomatoes, especially products based on tomatoes since they contribute to the pain associated with Heartburn.
- In order to avoid aggravating Heartburn, it is essential to exercise care while consuming hot or greasy meals.
- One of the most critical factors in controlling and decreasing the incidence of Heartburn is making mindful food choices and selecting suitable alternatives.
- These actions contribute to the general comfort of the digestive system and aid in preventing symptoms associated with Heartburn.
Contaminants Detected in Fruitland Water
Special
Service District
30
Contaminants
EXCEED EWG HEALTH GUIDELINES
EXCEED EWG HEALTH GUIDELINES
30 Total Contaminants in Your Water
Water Provider
Fruitland Water Special Service DistrictPopulation Affected
120,000Water Source
Ground waterExceeds Guidelines
Others Detected