Does Ginger Ale Really Soothe Nausea and Stomachaches?

For generations, ginger ale has been a go-to remedy for those suffering from nausea, bloating, or general stomach discomfort. It’s a widely held belief that sipping this fizzy, ginger-flavored beverage can calm a queasy stomach. But how much of its reputation is backed by science, and how much is rooted in tradition and placebo? Here, we unravel the story of ginger ale and its role in digestive relief, guided by insights from medical experts and nutritionists.

Why Is Ginger Ale Thought To Help With Nausea?

Ginger ale’s reputation as a stomach soother is deeply ingrained in popular culture and home remedy lore. For many, childhood memories include being handed a glass of ginger ale to quiet an upset stomach, a tradition passed down through families. At the heart of this belief lies ginger, a spice long hailed for its medicinal properties.

• Ginger root contains bioactive compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, which have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea effects.
• Historically, ginger has been used to treat various ailments—from seasickness to morning sickness during pregnancy.
• The carbonation in ginger ale may also seem to provide a soothing effect on the digestive system for some people.

But does the ginger in ginger ale—a commercial soft drink—provide the same benefit as ginger root or concentrated ginger supplements?

What the Experts Say: What’s In Most Ginger Ales?

Natasha Chhabra, M.D., a gastroenterologist at Gastroenterology Associates of New Jersey, notes that ginger itself has been recommended for nausea, especially in research on pregnancy-related or chemotherapy-induced symptoms. But she draws a crucial distinction: most mainstream ginger ales “contain little to no real ginger.”

• Melissa Prest, D.C.N., R.D.N., spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, explains that the comforting effect of ginger ale is likely more psychological than medicinal because the beverage typically lacks meaningful concentrations of ginger’s active compounds.
• Many leading ginger ale brands rely primarily on carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and colorings—with only trace amounts (if any) of ginger extract added for flavor.
• This means most ginger ales are unlikely to deliver the nausea-busting effects associated with ginger itself.

Some specialty or craft ginger ales may have a higher natural ginger content, but even then, the concentration is generally much lower than in medicinal forms of ginger such as capsules or raw root.

Is Ginger Ale Good for Nausea?

The core question is whether grabbing a can of ginger ale will truly help with nausea, or if you’re simply sipping on a sweet placebo. Here’s what research and expert commentary reveal:

• Ginger, in various forms, has shown promise in clinical trials for managing nausea associated with pregnancy, motion sickness, and chemotherapy .
• A systematic review found ginger can be more effective than placebo and equally effective as some anti-nausea medications, especially in higher, standardized doses .
• However, there is little scientific evidence that commercial ginger ale helps with nausea, primarily due to the very low ginger content .

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The carbonation in ginger ale, for certain individuals, can either help settle the stomach or, in some cases, exacerbate symptoms such as bloating or excess gas. The sugary and artificially flavored profile of most sodas may aggravate digestive issues for certain people, especially those who are sensitive to high fructose corn syrup or artificial additives.

Key Takeaway

• Ginger: effective for nausea in many studies (especially in significant doses).
• Ginger ale: not effective for most cases of nausea due to low (or absent) ginger content.

Which Forms of Ginger Work Best for Nausea?

Experts generally recommend choosing ginger in more concentrated or natural forms over commercial ginger ale. These include:

• Ginger tea made from fresh sliced ginger and hot water.
• Ginger capsules or supplements, which deliver standardized and concentrated doses of gingerol.
• Crystallized ginger or ginger chews—these are portable, standardized, and often palatable for quick symptom relief.
• Fresh or ground ginger added to smoothies, soups, or broths.

These options are generally more potent, safer for long-term use, and better studied for gastrointestinal and anti-nausea benefits.

Potential Benefits of Ginger Root for Nausea and Digestion

Research suggests that ginger root can

• Reduce nausea from pregnancy, motion sickness, and chemotherapy .
• Shorten duration and severity of nausea episodes.
• Possibly ease mild bloating, cramping, or indigestion by stimulating digestive enzymes.
• Has *anti-inflammatory* compounds that support healthy digestion.

Some small studies indicate that ginger could be as effective as prescription anti-nausea medications for some patients, with fewer side effects. However, these benefits require a sufficient, medicinal dose of ginger.

Limitations and Risks of Ginger Ale for Digestive Issues

• The primary ingredient in many commercial ginger ales is high fructose corn syrup or sugar—not ginger. Excess sugar can actually worsen stomach problems for some people by drawing water into the gut or irritating sensitive stomach linings.
• Carbonation may cause or worsen bloating, gas, or heartburn in those already suffering from gastrointestinal upset.
• Artificial colorings and preservatives in commercial sodas have no health benefit and could irritate some individuals.
• Low or no natural ginger content means the key active compounds are missing, so helpful effects are unlikely.

If you feel relief from drinking ginger ale, the effect may be due to hydration, the placebo effect, or the cool sensation of a sweet liquid, rather than any medicinal impact of ginger itself.

Better Alternatives to Ginger Ale for Soothing Nausea

Additional options, such as broths, electrolyte drinks, and small frequent meals, may also help depending on the underlying cause of nausea. Medical attention is necessary if symptoms are persistent, severe, or accompanied by signs of dehydration.

When Should You Avoid Ginger Ale?

• If you have a known sensitivity to carbonated beverages or excess sugar.
• If you are already experiencing bloatedness or gas—fizziness might make it worse.
• If you require effective medical relief from significant nausea (e.g., chemotherapy, pregnancy), more concentrated ginger supplements are preferable.
• If you have diabetes or are watching blood sugar, as many sodas are high in sugar.

Summary Table: Ginger Ale vs. Real Ginger for Nausea

Tips for Using Ginger Safely

• Moderation: For most adults, up to 1 gram of ginger daily is considered safe.
• Avoid excess: High doses may cause mild heartburn or interact with certain medications (such as blood thinners).
• Children and pregnancy: Ginger is generally safe, but consult a healthcare provider before use, especially in large amounts.
• Check ingredients: If you want real benefits, look for products listing ginger root or extract as a primary ingredient.

Always consult your doctor if your nausea is persistent, severe, or unexplained, or arises after starting a new medication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why do so many people recommend ginger ale for nausea?

A: Ginger ale’s reputation comes from the traditional use of ginger to ease stomach discomfort. However, the ginger content in many modern brands is so low that the effect is likely psychological rather than pharmacological.

Q: Which ginger ale brands actually contain real ginger?

A: Some craft or specialty brands market higher real ginger content, but most leading brands use ginger flavoring or extract in very small, non-therapeutic amounts. Always check the label for ingredients.

Q: Are there alternatives to ginger ale that are more effective for nausea?

A: Yes. Ginger tea, ginger capsules, and crystallized ginger offer higher and more effective doses of gingerol. Peppermint tea and hydration with water or broths are also beneficial for many people.

Q: Can ginger have side effects?

A: Consumed in reasonable amounts, ginger is generally safe. High doses may cause mild heartburn, and it may interact with certain blood-thinning medications. Consult a healthcare provider if unsure.

Q: When should I seek medical attention for nausea?

A: See a doctor if nausea is accompanied by severe pain, high fever, blood in vomit, signs of dehydration (such as dry mouth, dizziness, or infrequent urination), or persists longer than a few days.

Final Thoughts

While ginger—the real stuff—has proven anti-nausea benefits, most ginger ales found on supermarket shelves fall short of this reputation. For those truly seeking relief from nausea and digestive discomfort, more concentrated ginger preparations and simple, bland fluids remain the best science-backed choice. Ginger ale, in most cases, offers little more than nostalgia and refreshment.

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Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

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