What are the side effects of drinking ginger ale soda?

Can ginger ale cause gas or bloating?

The NIDDK says you swallow more air when you drink carbonated, or fizzy, drinks, and that swallowed air may lead to more gas and gas symptoms. This comes from the fizz, so it applies to carbonated drinks in general, not only ginger ale.

Can ginger in ginger ale cause stomach problems?

NIH’s NCCIH says ginger taken by mouth “can have side effects such as abdominal discomfort, heartburn, diarrhea, and mouth and throat irritation.” That page covers ginger supplements and does not mention ginger ale. We found no official figure for how much ginger a ginger ale contains, so we cannot say whether a glass reaches those effects.

Are there risks from the sugar?

The CDC says frequently drinking sugar-sweetened beverages is associated with weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, tooth decay and gout. Check the label to see if your ginger ale is sweetened with sugar.

Can ginger ale cause headaches, nausea or liver damage?

We found no NIH, CDC or NHS page that says ginger ale causes headaches, vomiting or liver damage, so we make no claim either way. If a drink makes you feel sick, stop and notice what else you ate.

When should I see a doctor?

NIDDK advises talking with a doctor if gas symptoms bother you, change suddenly, or come with abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea or weight loss. NCCIH advises people who take any medicine to talk with a health care provider before using ginger or other herbal products. Ask a doctor or pharmacist about your own case.