Published on April 18th, 2023

Are you struggling with acid reflux and looking for natural ways to manage it? One question that often comes up is, "Does alkaline water help with acid reflux?" In this article, we'll dive into the topic and explore the top 5 benefits of using alkaline water for acid reflux.

So, if you're curious about whether alkaline water can help ease your acid reflux symptoms, keep reading.

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What is Acid Reflux, and How to Manage It?

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus. The esophagus is the tube that carries food from your mouth to your stomach. When the acid flows back up, it irritates the lining of the esophagus, causing the burning sensation commonly known as heartburn.

There are several ways to manage acid reflux, including:

• Eating smaller, more frequent meals
• Avoiding trigger foods such as fatty or fried foods, citrus fruits, and spicy foods
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Elevating the head of your bed
• Avoiding lying down for at least two hours after eating

What Causes Acid Reflux?

Acid reflux can be caused by several factors, including:

• Hiatal hernia: A condition in which the upper part of the stomach moves above the diaphragm, allowing acid to flow into the esophagus.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax, allowing acid to flow into the esophagus.
• Obesity: Excess weight can put pressure on the stomach, causing acid to flow back up into the esophagus.
• Smoking: Nicotine can weaken the LES, allowing acid to flow into the esophagus.

Does Alkaline Water Help With Acid Reflux?

Many people believe that alkaline water can help with acid reflux. The theory behind this is that by increasing your pH level and neutralizing the acid, reflux starts to become less common and less strong. While there is limited research on the topic, some studies have shown that alkaline water can help neutralize stomach acid and reduce symptoms of acid reflux.

One study published in the Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology found that alkaline water with a pH of 8.8 can help deactivate pepsin, an enzyme that plays a role in acid reflux. Another study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that athletes who drank alkaline water had fewer symptoms of acid reflux than those who drank regular water.

5 Benefits of Alkaline Water for Acid Reflux

1. Neutralizes stomach acid: As mentioned earlier, alkaline water can help neutralize stomach acid, reducing symptoms of acid reflux.
2. Reduces inflammation: Alkaline water has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the esophagus caused by acid reflux.
3. Improves digestion: Alkaline water can help improve digestion by reducing acidity in the stomach, which can lead to better nutrient absorption.
4. Hydrates the body: Alkaline water is believed to hydrate the body better than regular water, which can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux.
5. Boosts immune system: Alkaline water has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help boost the immune system and reduce the risk of infections.

Ion vs. Alkaline Water

It's important to note that not all alkaline water is created equal. Some brands use an ionization process to create alkaline water, while others use a mineral-based alkalinization processIonized water is created by running tap water through an electrically charged chamber, which separates the water into acidic and alkaline components. The alkaline component is then collected and sold as alkaline water. However, this process may not remove all contaminants and heavy metals from the water, which can be a concern.

On the other hand, mineral-based alkalinization uses natural minerals such as calcium and magnesium to raise the pH of the water. This process also removes contaminants and heavy metals, making it a healthier option. Blue Jug, for instance, uses a mineral-based alkalinization process to create high-quality alkaline water for their customers.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you suffer from acid reflux, alkaline water may be worth trying. While the research is limited, some studies have shown that alkaline water can help reduce symptoms of acid reflux by neutralizing stomach acid and reducing inflammation. Additionally, alkaline water has other benefits such as improving digestion, hydrating the body, and boosting the immune system.

At Blue Jug, we understand the importance of providing high-quality alkaline water to our customers. Our mineral-based alkalinization process ensures that our water is not only alkaline but also free from contaminants and heavy metals. Give us a visit at our Magnolia, TX location, or visit our shop section to purchase online. We ship to Spring, Conroe, Magnolia, Montgomery, Willis, and surrounding areas. Feel free to reach out to us at (936) 255-9000 or [email protected] for more information, or check out our special discounts!