Acid Reflux and Sugar: Essential Facts to Understand
Sugar Consumption and Acid Reflux: A Closer Look
Sugar consumption may worsen symptoms of acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition where stomach acid travels into the esophagus.
The primary way sugar contributes to acid reflux is by promoting fermentation in the stomach and gut. This fermentation leads to inflammation, gas, and increased pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), encouraging stomach contents to reflux into the esophagus and aggravate symptoms.
Fermentation of sugars by gut microbes produces toxic compounds, such as acetaldehyde, that damage the stomach and esophageal lining and increase tissue sensitivity to acid. Additionally, sugar contributes to microbial imbalance (dysbiosis) and gas production in the gut, which raises pressure against the LES, promoting reflux.
Diets high in refined sugars and white flour are specifically implicated in triggering reflux more than complex carbohydrates or fiber-rich foods, the latter being protective through improved gut motility and microbiome health.
Low stomach acid (hypochlorhydria), which can be worsened by some medications and conditions, may paradoxically lead to reflux symptoms aggravated by sugar intake since sugar fermentation further inflames the mucosa and disrupts acid balance.
Clinical evidence indicates that reducing sugar intake can improve reflux symptoms, with low-sugar or low-carb diets shown to help many individuals with GERD.
While the FDA does not interpret the carcinogenic findings regarding sweeteners in the same way as some scientists, certain studies suggest that some sweeteners have a carcinogenic effect, which could increase the risk of some cancers in large enough doses. However, sugar substitutes were not mentioned as affecting acid reflux in the provided text.
Other dietary factors such as fatty and spicy foods, chocolate, coffee, beer, and wine can potentially worsen GERD. Eating shortly before bedtime can worsen acid reflux, regardless of a person's diet.
In a 2019 review, there is evidence that sugary foods can trigger GERD. Reducing sugary food intake can improve the symptoms of GERD for some individuals. Adopting a lower-carb or Mediterranean diet may help manage GERD.
Individuals with GERD or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), a form of acid reflux where stomach acid travels to the vocal cords and surrounding tissues, may wish to limit or avoid sugary foods. Evidence shows that both GERD and LPR are more likely to arise in those who consume more sugar.
In summary, limiting refined sugar intake, improving dietary fiber, and supporting a healthy gut microbiome can help reduce reflux triggers effectively. Chewing sugar-free gum after meals may also reduce acid exposure in the esophagus by stimulating saliva production and neutralizing acid, though this is distinct from sugar intake itself.
- The consumption of refined sugars, which can lead to increased fermentation in the stomach and gut, might exacerbate the symptoms of chronic diseases like acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Diets high in sugar can contribute to microbial imbalance (dysbiosis) and gas production in the gut, which raises pressure against the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), potentially causing reflux.
- Adopting a lower-carb or Mediterranean diet, known for their fiber-rich foods, may help manage GERD and reduce the risk of reflux triggers.
- Individuals with acid reflux conditions, such as GERD or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), might benefit from limiting or avoiding sugary foods as excessive sugar intake is associated with a higher likelihood of these conditions.
