Does Drinking Hot Water Help Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux is a common digestive problem that occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest and throat.
If you are tired of popping antacids to get relief from acid reflux and may want to try a natural remedy, use hot water for drinking. While it may sound too simple to be true, hot water can help alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux.
In this article, we will explore how drinking hot water can help with acid reflux and its benefits, and provide some tips on how to use it.
How does Hot Water Help Acid Reflux?
Drinking hot water is a popular natural remedy for various digestive problems. It works by soothing the digestive tract and reducing acidity levels, flushing out toxins, and reducing inflammation.
Drinking hot water can also help improve digestion, and reduce inflammation in the gut. These properties make it an effective natural remedy for acid reflux.
Benefits of Drinking Hot Water for Acid Reflux
While there are several ways to manage acid reflux, drinking hot water is one of the simplest and most effective remedies.
It helps to soothe the digestive system, promote better digestion, hydrate the body, alleviate constipation, and reduce stress.
Let’s discuss the benefits of drinking hot water for acid reflux in more detail.
Helps to Hydrate the Body
Drinking hot water can help to keep the body hydrated. When the body is dehydrated, it can lead to several digestive problems, including acid reflux.
By drinking hot water, you can prevent dehydration and improve your overall health.
Reducing Acidity Levels
Drinking hot water can help reduce the acidity levels in the stomach, making it less likely that stomach acid will flow back up into the esophagus.
This can help alleviate the burning sensation in the chest and throat that is characteristic of acid reflux.
Alleviates Constipation
Constipation can also cause acid reflux. Drinking hot water can help to alleviate constipation by promoting bowel movement.
This can reduce the pressure on the digestive system and prevent acid reflux.
Cleansing the Digestive Tract
Hot water can help flush out toxins and harmful bacteria from the digestive tract, reducing the risk of acid reflux.
When the digestive tract is clean, food is processed more efficiently, reducing the risk of acid reflux.
Improved Digestion and Bowel Movement
Hot water can help improve digestion and bowel movement. The heat from the water increases blood flow to the digestive system, promoting better digestion and improving bowel movement.
This can help prevent acid reflux.
Reduces Stress
Stress is a significant trigger for acid reflux. Drinking hot water can help to reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation.
When you are relaxed, it reduces the risk of acid reflux.
Reducing Inflammation
Inflammation in the gut can cause acid reflux and other digestive problems. Hot water can help reduce inflammation, reducing the risk of acid reflux.
How to Use Hot Water for Acid Reflux
Hot water may help ease the symptoms of acid reflux for some people, but it is not a guaranteed solution.
Here are some tips for using hot water to manage acid reflux:
Best Time to Drink Hot Water
Sipping warm water throughout the day can help keep your throat and digestive tract moist, which may help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
- Drinking hot water before meals can help prepare the stomach for digestion.
- Drinking hot water after meals can help flush out any undigested food that could cause acid reflux.
- Drinking hot water before bed can help promote better sleep.
Recommended Temperature
Drinking extremely hot water can damage the lining of the esophagus, so it’s important to drink water at a safe temperature.
The ideal temperature is between 120-160°F (48-71°C).
Avoid Hot Water with Meals
Drinking hot water with meals can actually make acid reflux worse. Instead, try drinking room temperature or cold water with meals.
It’s recommended to start by drinking one cup of hot water before or after meals. You can gradually increase the intake to two to three cups per day.
Hot Water with Lemon Juice
Lemon juice can help neutralize stomach acid, making it less likely to back up into the esophagus.
Squeeze half a lemon into a glass of warm water and drink it first thing in the morning, before meals, or before bedtime.
Hot Water with Honey
Honey has natural anti-inflammatory properties and may help soothe an irritated esophagus.
Add a teaspoon of honey to a cup of warm water and sip it slowly.
Be Cautious with Herbal Teas
Some herbal teas, like peppermint or spearmint, may actually worsen acid reflux symptoms.
Stick with non-minty options like chamomile or ginger tea, and make sure they’re not too hot.
If you’re experiencing frequent or severe symptoms of acid reflux, be sure to consult a healthcare professional.
Risks and Precautions
Hot water is often recommended for relieving symptoms of acid reflux, but it can also pose certain risks if not used properly.
Here are some precautions to keep in mind:
Avoid boiling hot water
Drinking extremely hot water can cause burns to the mouth and throat, and may worsen acid reflux symptoms.
Check the temperature
Always check the temperature of the water before drinking it. The ideal temperature is lukewarm or slightly warm.
Drink in moderation
Drinking too much hot water can cause dehydration and may also worsen acid reflux symptoms.
Use a straw
Drinking hot water through a straw can help protect the teeth and minimize the risk of burns.
Avoid adding acidic ingredients
Adding lemon or other acidic ingredients to hot water can further aggravate acid reflux symptoms.
Talk to your doctor
If you have frequent acid reflux, it’s important to talk to your doctor about the best ways to manage your symptoms.
By taking these precautions, you can safely use hot water to alleviate acid reflux symptoms and promote digestive health.
FAQs
Conclusion
Overall, drinking hot water is a simple and effective natural remedy for acid reflux. It’s safe, affordable, and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.
However, it’s essential to make lifestyle changes and consult with a healthcare provider if you have severe or persistent acid reflux symptoms.
By taking these steps, you can enjoy the benefits of hot water for acid reflux and improve your overall digestive health.
