Sugarcane juice is generally considered cooling and beneficial in Ayurveda, often used to balance the Pitta dosha because of its natural sweetness. However, in some individuals, especially those with a Pitta-predominant constitution or imbalances, the sugars in sugarcane juice can stimulate excess acid production, leading to the reflux symptoms you’re experiencing.
Your symptoms could also be due to drinking it on an empty stomach, which can stimulate digestive acids. To mitigate this, try having sugarcane juice a couple of hours after meals instead. Avoid consuming it first thing in the morning or immediately before bed. Pairing it with snacks is a good step, but ensure they are Pitta-calming foods, perhaps small portions of almonds or cooling fruits like cucumber, rather than spicy or heavy foods.
In your case, it may be beneficial to consume sugarcane juice at room temperature or slightly chilled, as extremely cold drinks can impact the digestive fire, or agni. A pinch of cardamom or ginger can sometimes help neutralize the increased pitta effects if you choose to continue this habit.
Lastly, if symptoms persist, try reducing your overall intake or even pausing consumption for a bit to see if it alleviates your discomfort. Remember, each body responds differently, and what might be soothing for one may not be the same for another. If you continue to experience discomfort, it may be useful to consult with a local Ayurvedic practitioner who can provide tailored advice based on a deeper understanding of your dosha balance and lifestyle.
