Is Ginger Ale a Remedy for Stomach Pain? Here’s What Experts Say

If you ever had an upset stomach as a child, chances are someone handed you a glass of ginger ale to sip. But does this fizzy, sweet drink actually help with nausea and stomach pain, or is it just a comforting placebo? While ginger itself has well-documented benefits for digestive health, ginger ale may not be as effective as many believe.

Why Ginger Helps With Nausea and Stomach Pain

Ginger has been used for centuries to ease nausea, indigestion, and bloating and modern science supports these traditional uses. The root contains bioactive compounds that:

• Stimulate the production of digestive enzymes

• Help food move through the digestive tract more efficiently

• Interact with the brain to reduce feelings of nausea

A review in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition (March 2024) confirmed that ginger effectively reduces nausea and vomiting in both pregnant individuals and chemotherapy patients. Additionally, a 2023 study in BMC Complementary Therapies and Medicine found that ginger may relieve bloating and gas by increasing intestinal motility, meaning it helps move food through the digestive system faster.

Does Ginger Ale Actually Work?

Despite ginger’s benefits, ginger ale is unlikely to provide the same relief. Many commercial ginger ales contain little to no real ginger. Instead, they rely on natural flavors and added sugars to create the familiar taste.

So why might you feel better after drinking it? The slight nausea relief may come from:

• Sugar: A small boost in blood sugar can improve mood and help mild nausea.

• Carbonation: Some people find that fizzy drinks help settle an upset stomach.

However, these effects are temporary and don’t provide the same digestive support as real ginger.

The Downsides of Drinking Ginger Ale for Nausea

While an occasional ginger ale isn’t harmful, relying on it for nausea relief has drawbacks:

• High sugar content: A 12-ounce can contains about 32 grams of sugar more than the American Heart Association’s daily recommended limit for women (25 grams) and close to the limit for men (36 grams).

• Possible bloating and gas: Carbonation can make symptoms worse for some people.

• Blood sugar spikes: If you’re not eating much, a sugary drink could lead to an energy crash.

Better Ways to Use Ginger for Stomach Relief

Instead of ginger ale, opt for forms of ginger that retain its beneficial compounds:

• Fresh ginger tea: Steep thin slices of fresh ginger root in boiling water for 10 minutes. Add honey or lemon for extra flavor.

• Ginger chews or candies: Brands like Prince of Peace and The Ginger People offer options that contain real ginger.

• Ginger capsules: A convenient choice for those who need a stronger dose for nausea relief.

The Bottom Line

Ginger is a powerful natural remedy for nausea and stomach discomfort, but ginger ale is not the best way to get its benefits. If you’re feeling queasy, try fresh ginger tea or ginger chews instead they’ll provide far more of the active compounds that actually help digestion.

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