Are You Drinking Water Wrong?

Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, but did you know that how you drink water could significantly impact your digestive health? A leading dietician has revealed that certain water-drinking habits can actually worsen acid reflux symptoms, leading to discomfort and pain.

The Inside Scoop from an Expert

Molly Pelletier, a registered dietician specializing in acid reflux, recently shared her insights on Instagram, where she has amassed over 64,000 followers. She revealed a startling truth: the way you consume water may be a hidden trigger for heartburn, bloating, and other distressing symptoms.

Understanding Acid Reflux

Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, resulting in a burning sensation commonly known as heartburn. This condition can be exacerbated by various factors, including stress, eating too quickly, and, as it turns out, how you hydrate.

Change Your Drinking Habits to Relieve Symptoms

According to Pelletier, it’s not just about what you drink, but how and when you drink it. Drinking large amounts of water during meals or gulping down cold water on an empty stomach might trigger symptoms like throat clearing and reflux. She advises, "Sip slowly—especially during meals. Think gentle hydration, not flooding your stomach!"

The Pressure on Your Stomach

While drinking a glass of water with meals is usually harmless for most people, it can contribute to increased pressure in the stomach, affecting the lower esophageal sphincter, the valve that prevents acid from escaping upward. This added stomach volume can lead to more frequent acid reflux symptoms.

Research Backs Up the Method

Dietetic expert Kitty Broihier emphasizes that drinking too much water, especially with a big meal, can lead to gastric distension or bloating, which further aggravates acid reflux. Studies show that this bloating can push stomach acid up towards the esophagus, intensifying the burning sensation.

Temperature Matters, Too!

Pelletier also recommends opting for room temperature water, as it’s easier for the body to absorb. Cold water can shock the system and may not provide the relief you seek.

Consult Professionals for Help

If you’re struggling with reflux issues, lifestyle changes or medical interventions may be necessary. Untreated acid reflux can progress to Barrett's esophagus, where abnormal cells grow in the esophagus, increasing the risk of esophageal cancer.

A Cautionary Note on Medications

Experts have raised alarms about the overuse of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like omeprazole, which can temporarily relieve symptoms, but may worsen reflux when discontinued. According to Cancer Research UK, individuals with Barrett's esophagus have an 11-fold greater risk of developing esophageal cancer.

Be mindful of your hydration practices—it could make all the difference in combating acid reflux!