In daily life, soda water is often considered a healthy beverage, especially favored by those who frequently suffer from acid reflux. However, can soda water truly help alleviate discomfort in the stomach? Experts point out that water mixed with pure baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) has a high alkaline concentration and can indeed neutralize stomach acid. In clinical practice, baking soda tablets are alkaline medications used to neutralize stomach acid. However, most commercially available soda beverages have a low concentration of sodium bicarbonate and are not very effective in neutralizing stomach acid.

Food exhibitions have observed that there is a wide variety of soda water brands on the market, with the main ingredients being water and sodium bicarbonate. Some brands also add acesulfame potassium, sucralose, and food flavorings. A popular sugar-free soda water sold on e-commerce platforms is priced at 4.6 yuan per bottle. However, considering its relatively high price, is it advisable to drink soda water regularly as a substitute for mineral water? Dr. Ma Qinyan, a gastroenterologist at a hospital in Jiangsu Province, indicated that compared to carbonated beverages, it is fine to drink soda water occasionally, but it is not recommended to consume it in large quantities over a long period. Most sugary soda drinks on the market not only have limited effects on neutralizing stomach acid but may even have the opposite effect by stimulating stomach acid secretion. This is especially true for patients with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes, as the metabolism of sugar can affect the control of blood lipids and blood sugar levels.

"Even sugar-free soda water, when consumed in large quantities, can increase stomach capacity. Excessive liquid can stimulate stomach acid secretion, potentially worsening symptoms of acid reflux," said Dr. Ma Qinyan. "Moreover, the high sodium content in soda water can lead to electrolyte imbalances. For patients with impaired kidney function, long-term consumption may result in water and sodium retention, exacerbating their condition."

It is important to note that some patients with acid reflux actually suffer from alkaline reflux. For these individuals, drinking soda water may worsen symptoms and increase the risk of esophageal reflux.

Dr. Ma Qinyan suggests that those with significant reflux symptoms should reduce their intake of liquid-heavy foods. After meals, they can take a walk or move around to promote gastrointestinal motility and accelerate the emptying of stomach acid. She believes that the first step in maintaining a healthy stomach is to improve one's lifestyle by reducing the intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, avoiding overeating and eating too quickly, and steering clear of overly spicy or sweet foods.

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Source: China Food News

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