If you often deal with bloating, nausea, heartburn, or stomach discomfort, you might blame food, stress, or a “sensitive stomach.” Alcohol is often overlooked, even though it can play a role in digestive discomfort, sometimes even in small amounts.
How alcohol can affect your stomach
Alcohol can:
- Irritate the lining of the stomach
- Increase stomach acid production
- Slow down digestion
- Relax the muscle that prevents acid reflux
- Disrupt the balance of gut bacteria
These effects can make digestive symptoms more noticeable, especially when alcohol is consumed regularly or on an empty stomach.
Common stomach symptoms linked to alcohol
You may notice:
- Bloating or excessive gas
- Nausea or queasiness
- Burning pain or heartburn
- Stomach cramps
- Loose stools or diarrhoea
Some drinks are more irritating than others
Certain types of alcohol may be harder on the stomach, including:
- Wine, especially red wine
- Champagne and sparkling wine
- Beer and cider
- Fizzy cocktails
- Drinks mixed with citrus juice (lemon, lime, orange)
- Sugary mixers, including cola and energy drinks
How antacids can help relieve symptoms
Because alcohol can increase stomach acid and irritate the stomach lining, some people find relief from using an antacid.
Antacids can:
- Neutralise excess stomach acid
- Reduce burning linked to heartburn or indigestion
- Soothe mild stomach irritation
They are intended for short-term relief and work best when combined with mindful drinking habits.
Simple habits that work well
To help prevent symptoms from returning:
- Eat before drinking alcohol
- Drink more slowly
- Alternate alcoholic drinks with water
- Avoid drinks that trigger discomfort or switch to lower-acid options like clear spirits
- Take regular alcohol-free days
Alcohol doesn’t affect everyone in the same way, but for some people it can be a major trigger for stomach discomfort. Paying attention to how your body responds, and making small changes, can help support better digestion without needing to give up alcohol completely.
References
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1521691803000349#
https://www.affinityhealth.co.za/the-effects-of-alcohol-on-the-digestive-system/#
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6826790/#
https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohols-effects-body#
