So you always understood that wine and acid reflux just aren’t supposed to mix, right? Well, some recent research may suggest otherwise.

As many wine lovers who also suffer from acid reflux will attest, alcoholic beverages aren’t the easiest on the stomach. The phrase wine acid reflux is almost a term in itself; the combination of alcohol and the acidity of the wine make for an uncomfortable team for your esophagus and your stomach to combat.

Health Benefits of Wine

In recent years, researchers have accumulated evidence to indicate that wine — especially red wine — contains a plethora of health promoting compounds. This doesn’t change the many poor affects of drinking alcohol, unfortunately, but has given both researchers and wine lovers cause for pause. How can we leverage those healthful properties without harming ourselves?

The answer, perhaps, is in moderation and food pairing. I am in no way condoning alcohol consumption, but if you must have that velvety red wine, I suggest sipping it with some food.

Everything in Moderation: Wine for Acid Reflux?

While alcoholic drinks are still a bad idea for most people suffering from chronic heartburn, a recent study found that people who enjoy a glass a wine each day with a meal were statistically less prone to be afflicted with Barrett’s Esophagus. This isn’t an indication that wine should be crucial component in any diet acid reflux however.

We don’t yet specifically understand the results of this research, but the implication seems to be that by consuming food with the wine, we provide a protective layer for our esophagus. So you reap the benefits of wine without damaging your esophagus… theoretically.

Now please don’t view this as my supporting wine as a treatment for GERD symptoms, Barrett’s esophagus symptoms or acid reflux, but I know many people love their wine. So if you must drink wine, try to wine and dine to help preserve your esophagus. Wine and acid reflux may no longer be the pain pals they once were.