Suffering from heartburn or acid reflux? Discover the coffees that won't make it worse!
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For many of us, the day doesn't truly begin until we've had that first sip of coffee. It's a ritual, a comfort, and for some, a necessity.
But for those who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux, this morning staple can turn from friend to foe, leaving us with a burning question: Can we still enjoy our beloved brew without the discomfort?
Before we dive into the types of coffee that are easier on the stomach, let's understand the issue at hand.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing that all-too-familiar burning sensation known as heartburn.
Regular coffee consumption has been linked to exacerbating these symptoms due to its acidity and caffeine content.
However, not all hope is lost for coffee enthusiasts. Certain types of coffee and brewing methods can reduce the likelihood of acid reflux while still providing that much-needed caffeine kick.
Dark roast
It turns out that the darkness of the roast can make a difference.
While it's true that dark roasts have fewer antioxidants than lighter roasts due to the extended roasting process, they also boast a lower acidity level. This is good news for those with acid reflux, as a dark or medium roast could be less likely to trigger symptoms.
Cold brew
Cold brew coffee has gained popularity not only for its smooth flavor profile but also for its stomach-friendly properties.
The cold brewing process, which involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, extracts fewer acids compared to traditional hot brewing methods. This results in a coffee that's less likely to irritate your esophagus and trigger acid reflux.
Decaf
While the idea of decaf may be unpalatable to some, it's worth considering if you're prone to acid reflux.
Decaf coffee contains lower levels of caffeine, which is thought to contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort. By opting for decaf, you can still enjoy the taste of coffee with a reduced risk of heartburn.
Low-acid
The buzz around low-acid coffees has been growing, with some brands specifically marketing their beans as being easier on the stomach. These coffees are typically produced using a conduction roasting method, which is slower and at a lower temperature than conventional roasting.
Despite the hype, research suggests that low-acid coffees may not provide significant benefits over other types of coffee for those suffering from acid reflux.
Aside from choosing the right type of coffee, there are other ways to minimize the risk of heartburn:
- Limit your coffee intake and consider smaller, more frequent servings.
- Drink coffee with or after meals to buffer the stomach lining.
- Reduce the amount of cream and sugar, as these can also contribute to acid reflux.
- Use a paper filter when brewing, as it can trap more of the acids that cause heartburn.
Also read: Banish acid reflux and heartburn forever with these 8 miracle foods!
Have you found a particular type of coffee that agrees with your stomach? Do you have any personal tips for enjoying coffee without triggering acid reflux? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below!
But for those who suffer from heartburn or acid reflux, this morning staple can turn from friend to foe, leaving us with a burning question: Can we still enjoy our beloved brew without the discomfort?
Before we dive into the types of coffee that are easier on the stomach, let's understand the issue at hand.
Acid reflux occurs when stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing that all-too-familiar burning sensation known as heartburn.
Regular coffee consumption has been linked to exacerbating these symptoms due to its acidity and caffeine content.
However, not all hope is lost for coffee enthusiasts. Certain types of coffee and brewing methods can reduce the likelihood of acid reflux while still providing that much-needed caffeine kick.
Darker roasts are less acidic and may be more suitable for those with acid reflux, while cold brew coffee offers a smoother cup with fewer acids. Image source: Elias Shariff Falla Mardini / Pixabay.
Dark roast
It turns out that the darkness of the roast can make a difference.
While it's true that dark roasts have fewer antioxidants than lighter roasts due to the extended roasting process, they also boast a lower acidity level. This is good news for those with acid reflux, as a dark or medium roast could be less likely to trigger symptoms.
Cold brew
Cold brew coffee has gained popularity not only for its smooth flavor profile but also for its stomach-friendly properties.
The cold brewing process, which involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, extracts fewer acids compared to traditional hot brewing methods. This results in a coffee that's less likely to irritate your esophagus and trigger acid reflux.
Decaf
While the idea of decaf may be unpalatable to some, it's worth considering if you're prone to acid reflux.
Decaf coffee contains lower levels of caffeine, which is thought to contribute to gastrointestinal discomfort. By opting for decaf, you can still enjoy the taste of coffee with a reduced risk of heartburn.
Low-acid
The buzz around low-acid coffees has been growing, with some brands specifically marketing their beans as being easier on the stomach. These coffees are typically produced using a conduction roasting method, which is slower and at a lower temperature than conventional roasting.
Despite the hype, research suggests that low-acid coffees may not provide significant benefits over other types of coffee for those suffering from acid reflux.
Aside from choosing the right type of coffee, there are other ways to minimize the risk of heartburn:
- Limit your coffee intake and consider smaller, more frequent servings.
- Drink coffee with or after meals to buffer the stomach lining.
- Reduce the amount of cream and sugar, as these can also contribute to acid reflux.
- Use a paper filter when brewing, as it can trap more of the acids that cause heartburn.
Also read: Banish acid reflux and heartburn forever with these 8 miracle foods!
Have you found a particular type of coffee that agrees with your stomach? Do you have any personal tips for enjoying coffee without triggering acid reflux? Share your experiences and advice in the comments below!
