Are you someone who enjoys a glass of red wine after a long day of work? Do you suffer from acid reflux?
If you do, then you may be wondering if red wine is safe to drink.
The short answer is no, red wine is not good for acid reflux. Red wine is highly acidic, and the alcohol content can affect and loosen the valve above the stomach, which often leads to acid reflux problems.
In this article, we will explore whether or not red wine is good for acid reflux in detail and what you should know before having a glass.
The Effects of Wine on Acid Reflux
Wine can affect acid reflux in different ways. Generally, people with acid reflux should avoid wine because it can often make acid reflux worse. However, there are a few things to consider if you do want to drink wine.
Factors that influence the impact of wine on acid reflux include:
- The type and quality of wine
- The amount and frequency of consumption (the more you drink, the higher the chances of acid reflux)
- The timing of drinking wine
- The individual’s sensitivity and tolerance to wine (people with more serious acid reflux should almost always avoid wine because of how much of a trigger it is)
Examples of how wine can either worsen or improve acid reflux symptoms:
- Red wine can be more acidic than white wine, which can cause more irritation to the esophagus and the whole digestive tract.
- When you drink wine with a meal, the food in the stomach can often help to lower the chances of acid reflux because it will lower the acidity of the wine when it is mixed with the food.
- Drinking wine on an empty stomach or before bed can increase the likelihood of acid reflux symptoms.
The Best and Worst Types of Wine for Acid Reflux
Different types of wine have different levels of acidity, alcohol, and other compounds that can affect acid reflux. Red wine and white wine can both affect acid reflux differently.
Even the least acidic type of wine can still likely be a trigger for acid reflux, therefore it is best to avoid or proceed with caution especially if you have more severe acid reflux.
The best and worst types of wine for acid reflux are:
- The best red wine for acid reflux is dry, low-alcohol, and low-tannin, such as Pinot Noir or Merlot. However, it’s important to note that no wine is really a good choice for acid reflux, but these would be the best options if you really wanted to drink it.
- The worst red wine for acid reflux is sweet, high-alcohol, and high-tannin, such as Port or Zinfandel.
- The best white wine for acid reflux is dry, low-alcohol, and low-sulfite, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Riesling.
- The worst white wine for acid reflux is sweet, high-alcohol, and high-sulfite, such as Moscato or Chardonnay.
Tips and Precautions for Drinking Wine with Acid Reflux
Wine typically is best to be avoided with acid reflux, though if you only have more minor acid reflux, you may be able to drink some at least in moderation.
If you do decide to drink wine, it’s important to drink responsibly and moderately to reduce the risk of acid reflux.
Tips and precautions for drinking wine with acid reflux include:
- Drink water before, during, and after drinking wine to dilute the acidity and alcohol.
- Avoid drinking wine on an empty stomach or close to bedtime to prevent stomach irritation and reflux.
- Eat foods that can neutralize or buffer the acidity of wine, such as cheese, nuts, or bread.
- Take antacids or other medications to relieve acid reflux symptoms if needed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, red wine is not good for acid reflux. However, if you want to have a glass of wine, it’s important to choose the right type of wine and drink it in moderation.
Remember, people with more serious acid reflux like GERD & LPR should almost always avoid wine because of how much of a big trigger it is for acid reflux.
If you’re struggling with acid reflux, we recommend our Wipeout Diet Plan, which provides a comprehensive guide to managing acid reflux through diet. You can also book a Private Consultation to get personalized advice and support.
Don’t forget to check our article here – Is Alcohol Acid or Alkaline?
Important Frequently Asked Questions
What Alcohol is OK with Acid Reflux?
While alcohol is generally not recommended for people with acid reflux, some types of alcohol are better tolerated than others.
Low-alcohol beverages like beer or wine may be better than high-alcohol drinks like spirits. However, it’s important to note that everyone’s acid reflux triggers are different, and what works for one person may not work for another.