People with IBS may want to avoid hard seltzer, which can affect gut health and worsen symptoms, nutritionists have warned.
The carbon dioxide in the drinks can cause bloating and gas, which can lead to flare-ups of irritable bowel syndrome that cause pain, constipation and diarrhea, according to Texas-based gastroenterologist Dr. Kenneth Brown.
The intestinal expert expressed his concerns about the phenomenon a new report about the damage of popular drinks to intestinal health.
He said the carbonated water in the drinks – which are often seen as ‘healthy’ alternatives to wine and beer – “can have negative effects on gut health depending on individual sensitivity and the type of sparkling water consumed.”
This is because, explains Dr. Brown explains, just as carbonation causes bubbles in water, it can cause a similar carbonation effect in the gastrointestinal system.
Between 25 and 45 million people in the US have irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS.
IBS disproportionately impacts women. Researchers think this is due to a combination of fluctuations in hormone levels and a more sensitive gut compared to men
IBS is believed to affect up to 45 million Americans, most of whom are women. The condition is characterized by abdominal pain or discomfort and irregular bowel movements
The condition causes a range of symptoms, including bloating, pain, constipation and diarrhea.
According to New York City-based gastroenterologist Dr. Elena Ivanina, drinking carbonated drinks doesn’t cause IBS, but it can certainly cause bloating and gas.
She said Live strong: “It makes sense, because you’re literally drinking gas bubbles.”
However, many people choose low-alcohol carbonated drinks such as hard seltzer, thinking that they contain fewer calories and sugars than wine, beer and mixed spirits.
IBS is not yet fully understood, but it is related to hypersensitivity of nerves in the gastrointestinal tract, which communicate with the nerves in the brain and spinal cord.
This could explain why many cases of IBS are related to stress.
The problem may be caused by a slower pace at which food moves through the digestive tract, which causes changes in bowel movements and changes in the balance of bacteria in the gas.
Gas in the digestive tract from zero-proof and alcoholic seltzers can be painful and cause uncomfortable bloating. If the seltzers are flavored, they can especially irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
Meanwhile, alcohol in hard seltzers can further irritate the intestines and cause contractions, leading to pain, bloating and diarrhea.
Gas in the digestive tract from zero-proof and alcoholic seltzers can be painful and cause uncomfortable bloating. Alcoholic seltzers, often chosen as a “healthy” alternative to other drinks, can irritate the intestines and cause contractions, leading to pain, bloating and diarrhea
People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should also stay clear, experts advise.
The condition causes acid from the stomach to bubble up into the throat, causing a burning sensation.
Those with the problem have a weakened sphincter at the bottom of the esophagus, which allows stomach contents to come back up, leading to heartburn.
The carbon dioxide bubbles in sparkling water can cause the stomach to expand and press on the sphincter. The pressure can increase the chance of acid reflux.
Curiously, experts say some patients claim the drink has helped alleviate some of their digestive problems.
Dr. Brown said: ‘For many, carbonated water can aid the digestive process and relieve symptoms such as gas and bloating by encouraging burping, which relieves pressure.
‘It can also improve hydration and benefit overall gut health, especially for those who struggle to drink enough plain water.’
The key when choosing a drink is to pay attention to how you feel when you drink it and save that for later, and reduce your seltzer intake if you find it makes you feel sick. In short, listen to your feelings.