First, slow down. That ice-cold can isn’t going anywhere. Drink your carbonated beverage in three or four sips over ten minutes, not in one thirsty gulp. Your stomach will thank you.
Second, never drink a fizzy beverage on an empty stomach. Pair it with food, especially something like crackers, nuts, or a slice of toast. The food acts as a buffer, absorbing some of that gas before it hits your gut lining.
Third, choose your bubbles wisely. Low-sugar or naturally flavored sparkling waters (like LaCroix or San Pellegrino) are gentler than syrupy sodas. If you’re sensitive, avoid drinks with high-fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners like sorbitol, which are infamous for causing bloating.
A Few Fun Hacks to Try
Try a stomach-friendly spritzer: mix half a glass of plain sparkling water with a splash of juice (like pomegranate or ginger, which aids digestion). You get the fizz without the heavy sugar load.
Common Causes of Stomach Pain & Ways to Find Relief
Another trick: let your drink warm up slightly for a minute before sipping. Ice-cold liquids can cause stomach muscles to cramp, while room-temperature fizz is less shocking to your system.
And yes, the classic burp is your body’s natural release valve. Don’t suppress it—let it out in a polite way. Holding it in can actually increase pressure and pain.
