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Home » Acidic Foods

Does Honey Cause Heartburn?

shirinMedically Reviewed by Shirin Buta · Written by Rizza Joyce Mira, MD · Updated on July 19, 2023

Many people suffer from acid reflux or GERD and associated symptoms like heartburn. These people often follow a low-acid diet to avoid triggering or worsening their symptoms. Followers of these diets must know the acidity of common foods and drinks and how each affects their condition.

does honey cause heartburn

Many foods are acidic and may trigger acid reflux symptoms, and highly processed foods are usually the worst offenders. However, does this mean natural foods, like honey, won't give you heartburn?

Table of Contents
  • Does Honey Cause Heartburn?
  • Is Honey Acidic?
  • How Does Honey Cause Heartburn?
  • Can Honey Help with Heartburn?
  • Is Honey Good for You?
  • Should You Eat Honey if You Suffer from Heartburn?
  • Conclusion

Does Honey Cause Heartburn?

Honey is high in calories and can cause heartburn in some people with acid reflux or GERD.

However, some believe eating honey soothes the esophagus, helping relieve acid reflux. A study by the British Medical Journal concluded that honey coats the walls of the esophagus, soothing it and helping with heartburn.

Moreover, in the same study, they mentioned that one of their proponents experienced heartburn relief after consuming 5mL of honey.

Don't know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level

Is Honey Acidic?

Honey is acidic, with a pH of around 3.70-4.20. However, it becomes alkaline after digestion, which means it does not add to the acid load in your digestive tract.

How Does Honey Cause Heartburn?

fresh organic golden honey
fresh organic golden honey

Everyone has different symptom triggers, and some may be able to eat honey without getting heartburn.

Nearly all of the calories in honey come from carbohydrates, and a tablespoon contains 17.2 g of sugar. Sugar inflames and irritates your digestive tract, stimulating gastric acid production and causing heartburn.

  • Top 15 Alkaline Foods You Should Include in Your Diet

Although eating honey in moderation is healthy, too much can lead to weight gain and worsen your acid reflux.

Can Honey Help with Heartburn?

Some studies show that honey can benefit those with acid reflux or GERD. Experts believe honey reduces inflammation in the esophagus, coating it and preventing damage from gastric acid.

Moreover, adding honey to different types of tea helps with balancing gastric acidity, soothing the esophagus, and aiding in digestion, which reduces the appearance of acid reflux symptoms.

  • Does Eating Too Fast Cause Heartburn?

Is Honey Good for You?

Honey contains a lot of antioxidants, which flush free radicals out of your body, preventing oxidative stress and reducing your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

health benefits of honey

Antioxidants also reduce inflammation, keeping your cardiovascular system healthy.

Some studies show that regularly eating honey can decrease bad cholesterol levels and raise good, reducing your risk of heart attack and stroke.

  • Does Olive Oil Cause Heartburn?

Honey is also rich in antibacterial compounds, which may help treat psoriasis, dermatitis, and herpes.

Honey is a healthier sweetener than white sugar, as although it's high in calories, it contains some nutrients and doesn't raise blood sugar levels as much.

Should You Eat Honey if You Suffer from Heartburn?

honey in a jar
Should you eat honey if you suffer from heartburn?

Studies show that honey’s texture and the compounds it contains can help acid reflux. Researchers recommend trying a teaspoon of honey to see if it relieves your heartburn, either on its own or mixed with tea or warm water.

  • Does Tuna Cause Heartburn?

Conclusion

Studies show that honey may benefit some people with acid reflux; however, everyone is different, and it may trigger or worsen symptoms in others.

Don't know what to drink? Check out these articles: 20 Most and Least Acidic Juices and 20+ Alcoholic Drinks Ranked by Acidity Level

Sources: FDA, PMC, British Medical Journal, Nutrition Data, and National Library of Medicine

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shirin

Shirin is a registered Medical Laboratory Scientist who teaches Immunology and Serology subjects. In her free time, she writes health-related articles to help advocate the prevention of lifestyle and infectious diseases. When not teaching or writing, she loves to try new food and attempts to recreate them at home.

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