Stomachaches are no fun. When you’re feeling sick to your stomach, you can feel even worse if you’re feeling nauseated. And you may turn to an old standby: ginger ale.
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But does ginger ale really help with nausea?
While many of us grew up thinking this fizzy drink could help ease our tummy troubles, the fact is that ginger ale may not be the cure-all we thought it was.
Family medicine physician Matthew Goldman, MD, explains why ginger ale might not be the best option and what you can drink instead to help settle your stomach.
Is ginger ale good for nausea and upset stomachs?
No, states Dr. Goldman.
Spoiler alert: Most ginger ale is actually fake. Ginger ale may not contain natural ginger. It could be an artificial flavoring.
And if it does have real ginger, it may not have enough to offer significant relief. Even then, most ginger ale won’t help. It could even make matters worse.
“Most commercial-brand ginger ales have at least 10 teaspoons of sugar,” says Dr. Goldman. “If a person has bloating, gas or indigestion, the carbonation and sugar may make it worse. Even diet ginger ale can be harmful because our bodies may not digest artificial sugars as well.”
The same can be said for ginger beer. Though it may contain higher levels of ginger than ginger ale, certain ginger beers are high in sugar, calories and caffeine.
Alternatives to ginger ale
If you really want ginger ale, Dr. Goldman suggests reading labels to ensure you’re getting less sugar and enough real ginger.
But your best bet? Ginger root from the grocery store, which can help with various forms of nausea like morning sickness, motion sickness and the side effects of certain chemotherapy treatments. Fresh ginger contains a compound called gingerol, which includes antioxidant properties and reduces inflammation.
So, how should you use ginger? Peel it and mix with decaf tea or warm water.
Dr. Goldman advises having ginger in small amounts throughout the day. Other ginger options available in the natural foods aisle of your grocery store or at a natural foods store include:
- Ginger candies or lollipops. Look for low-sugar options in the natural foods aisle of your grocery store or at a natural foods store. These can provide a convenient and tasty way to enjoy the benefits of ginger.
- Ginger chews. Another flavorful option that may help alleviate nausea.
- Ginger tea. Ginger tea is a soothing and time-tested remedy known for its ability to support digestion and settle the stomach.
- Ginger shots. Some people find ginger shots, typically concentrated forms of ginger, effective in providing quick relief from nausea.
- Foods that contain ginger. Low-sugar gingersnap cookies and other ginger-infused snacks can be a pleasant way to consume ginger when experiencing stomach discomfort.
- Powdered ginger. A versatile option for adding ginger flavor to various dishes and beverages.
What other drinks can help with tummy troubles? In addition to ginger-based remedies, consider these other options to help with tummy troubles:
- Peppermint tea. Peppermint tea has been shown to support digestion and can have a soothing effect on the stomach.
- Sports drinks or electrolyte drinks. When used in moderation, these beverages can be helpful in preventing dehydration. Be sure to check the added sugar content on the label.
- Oral rehydration solutions. For sick children, oral rehydration solutions like Pedialyte® are formulated with lower sugar levels and higher electrolytes, making them suitable for addressing dehydration while being gentle on children’s bodies.
- Water. Don’t underestimate the importance of staying hydrated. Sipping on ice water can be a simple and effective way to maintain fluid balance.
“It’s important to remember that individual preferences and sensitivities vary, so you may want to try different options to find the one that works best for you,” suggests Dr. Goldman. “In the end, the choice of remedy will depend on your specific needs and comfort.”
Bottom line?
When you have an upset stomach and are battling nausea, it’s important to stay hydrated. Instead of turning to ginger ale, you may want to opt for ginger tea, peppermint tea or even a sports or electrolyte drink.
You also want to opt for bland foods like saltine crackers, bananas and applesauce instead of spicy, acidic, sweet or fatty foods.
And while a little patience and some home remedies can help settle your stomach, if your nausea persists, it may be time to talk to a healthcare provider.
FAQs
Research has shown that fresh ginger root can alleviate nausea. However, commercialized ginger ale contains very little, if any, ginger. It mostly contains sugar, carbonated water, and ginger flavoring. Therefore, the soda doesn't have the ability to make you feel better.
Is co*ke or ginger ale better for an upset stomach? ›
You can also drink noncaffeinated sodas, such as Sprite, 7UP or ginger ale. Take care to avoid caffeinated sodas, since caffeine can make your upset stomach worse. The carbonation from sodas inflates the stomach while increasing its internal pressure.
Which soda is best for nausea? ›
Dehydration can make the nausea and vomiting worse. If you are able to, try small sips of cool flat co*ke, 7-up, ginger ale, Gatorade or popsicles. No diet drinks! Drinking plain water can sometimes make the vomiting and nausea worse.
Is Canada Dry Ginger Ale good for you? ›
Despite the health benefits of ginger, ginger ale still falls into the category of soft drinks or sodas, so it's not a health food. If you choose to consume ginger ale, it's best to do so in moderation as part of an overall healthy diet. Many commercial ginger ale drinks use artificial ginger flavoring.
What drinks are good for nausea? ›
Drink or sip cool liquids such as iced tea, water, tonic water, club soda, Sprite®, sports drinks, etc. It is important to drink to replace lost fluids.
Does Canada Dry Ginger Ale help with nausea? ›
Is ginger ale good for nausea and upset stomachs? No, states Dr. Goldman.
Why does ginger ale settle your stomach? ›
“The basic explanation of how ginger cures a stomach ache is that it has spasmolytic properties,” says Walsh. She explains that ginger works to calm the spasms that occur in the smooth muscle, which is the type of muscle found in the stomach and other organs that comprise the digestive system.
What settles nausea quickly? ›
Do
- get plenty of fresh air.
- distract yourself – for example, listen to music or watch a film.
- take regular sips of a cold drink.
- drink ginger or peppermint tea.
- eat foods containing ginger – such as ginger biscuits.
- eat smaller, more frequent meals.
“Carbonation can help to reduce the total acidity of the stomach, which may help the nausea dissipate,” Dr. Szarka says. Because many people associate sweet flavors with contentment, a soda might further help bring that queasy feeling under control.
Is ginger ale good when sick? ›
Ginger root has a long history of relieving nausea. Unfortunately, commercial ginger ale just doesn't contain much ginger and is unlikely to help. Be wary: Carbonation, sugar, and artificial sweeteners may actually worsen your symptoms. In large amounts, they can even bring on diarrhea.
Drink Reed's - Real Ginger Ale & Real Ginger Beer.
Why do doctors recommend ginger ale? ›
Hydration: Because ginger alleviates nausea and cramps, ginger ale is often used to rehydrate a person recovering from the loss of body fluids due to sweating, vomiting, fever, and diarrhea.
Does Canada Dry use real ginger ale? ›
“Canada Dry Ginger Ale has and will continue to be made using real ginger extract,” a spokeswoman told MarketWatch.
Does ginger actually help nausea? ›
Medicinal Uses and Indications
Today, health care professionals may recommend ginger to help prevent or treat nausea and vomiting from motion sickness, pregnancy, and cancer chemotherapy. It is also used to treat mild stomach upset, to reduce pain of osteoarthritis, and may even be used in heart disease.
Why do I feel nauseous but never throw up? ›
One main reason someone may feel nauseous without vomiting is related to digestive issues. If you're experiencing indigestion, acid reflux or even an upset stomach can trigger nausea.
What should I drink first in the morning for nausea? ›
Many women find that water doesn't sit well with nausea. If carbonated drinks such as ginger ale work best, Erick recommends those with the most bite, such as Schweppes or Jamaican ginger beer. Herbal teas such as red raspberry, lemon, spearmint, peach or chamomile may work.
What drink is best for an upset stomach? ›
Treatment
- Sports drinks.
- Clear, non-caffeinated sodas such as 7-Up, Sprite or ginger ale.
- Diluted juices such as apple, grape, cherry or cranberry (avoid citrus juices)
- Clear soup broth or bouillon.
- Popsicles.
- Decaffeinated tea.
Lie down in a comfortable position and take slow, deep breaths. This can help relax your body and reduce muscle tension, which can contribute to stomach pain. You can also try applying a warm compress to your stomach, such as a heating pad or warm water bottle wrapped in a towel.
What kills the stomach virus? ›
There's no medicine for stomach flu. Antibiotics don't work on viruses — they're for bacterial infections. The best thing you can do to help your immune system do its work is to stay home and rest, stay hydrated and eat a little if you can. Give your body the energy it needs to fight the infection.
Does co*ke help with digestion? ›
Coca-Cola, due to its carbonic, citric acid and phosphoric acid it resembles as the natural gastric acid that's thought to be important for fiber digestion. Furthermore, the sodium bicarbonate and carbon dioxide bubbles in the beverage might enhance its dissolving effect.
