The Connection between Coffee and Acid Reflux
Acid reflux, also known as GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), affects an estimated 20% of adults in the U.S.A. It is caused by the contents of the stomach moving up into the esophagus, and it can cause an uncomfortable burning sensation in the chest. Many people turn to over-the-counter medicines to alleviate the symptoms of acid reflux, but some find that drinking coffee can also alleviate symptoms. But is coffee really a safe option?
Coffee has long been known to be a trigger for acid reflux, as many sufferers experience an aggravated version of the symptoms after sipping on a cup of coffee. A 2008 Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology study found that coffee increases the pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter, the muscular ring at the top of the stomach, which can lead to further acid reflux episodes. The study also discovered that cafestol, an ingredient found in coffee, was even more effective in loosening the sphincter than coffee itself.
It would appear that coffee is not an ideal drink for people suffering from acid reflux. However, coffee may also have beneficial properties which help to reduce the symptoms related to acid reflux. A recent study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that taste and aroma receptor cells, which are found throughout the digestive system, respond positively to the compounds in coffee, leading to a reduction in stomach acid.
Furthermore, caffeine is believed to have an anti-inflammatory effect on the stomach and intestinal lining, meaning it can help to reduce the symptoms of acid reflux. However, it is important to remember that coffee can cause dehydration, which can make acid reflux symptoms worse; therefore it is important to drink plenty of water when drinking coffee.
Ultimately, it would appear that there is no definite answer to the question of whether or not coffee can help with acid reflux. Although it can be helpful in some cases, caffeine can also make symptoms worse, so it is important to be aware of the individual body’s reactions before drinking coffee in order to cope with acid reflux.
Different Types of Coffee and Acid Reflux
Regular coffee is one of the most common drinks which can aggravate acid reflux symptoms. But not all types of coffee are created equal. For instance, espresso has less than half the amount of cafestol, which is believed to be a prime culprit in acid reflux symptoms, than regular coffee, and therefore drinking espresso can reduce the risk of the condition. Furthermore, the lactic acid and caffeine content of espresso is lower than regular coffee, both of which can increase acid reflux.
In addition, it is believed that decaffeinated coffee, either regular or espresso, also has a calming effect on the lower esophageal sphincter. A 2007 Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology study showed that decaffeinated coffee had the same calming effect on the lower esophageal sphincter as regular coffee, meaning that those suffering from acid reflux can still enjoy coffee without risking the aggravation of symptoms.
Other options for people suffering from acid reflux are to swap coffee completely for other caffeinated beverages, such as tea. Herbal teas are a particularly good choice, as they are much lower in acidic compounds than coffee, meaning they can aid digestion without triggering symptoms. Furthermore, the high amount of antioxidants present in herbal teas can be beneficial in the fight against acid reflux.
Dietary Changes and Acid Reflux
Dietary changes can make a significant difference to people suffering from acid reflux. Foods which are high in fat, acidic or spicy are particularly likely to aggravate symptoms, so it is important to pay attention to what is eaten. Alcohol also has a detrimental effect on acid reflux, as it encourages the relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter. Therefore it is important to both limit the amount of alcohol consumed and to avoid drinking alcohol with meals.
It is important to remember that reducing the amount of fatty, acidic and spicy foods eaten will not necessarily cure acid reflux; rather, it can reduce the instances of symptoms. Furthermore, it is not necessary to completely restrict foods which may enhance acid reflux symptoms, such as those high in acid; rather, it is important to pay attention to quantity.
Additionally, drinking plenty of water and eating smaller meals throughout the day can also be very beneficial in reducing symptoms related to acid reflux. It is important to pay attention to when symptoms occur and to try to limit foods which could be a trigger for acid reflux, as well as eating smaller portions at regular intervals throughout the day.
Tips for Reducing Acid Reflux Symptoms
For those struggling with acid reflux, the most important thing is to take the time to identify the foods and drinks which cause symptoms to worsen. Paying attention to symptoms and recording the things eaten and drunk when they arise can give an indication of which foods are having an adverse effect.
In addition, it is important to eat slowly, make sure food is chewed thoroughly and to lean forward when eating. Eating too quickly means that the stomach is overloaded, while leaning forward helps to prevent the contents of the stomach gaining access to the esophagus.
Finally, maintaining a healthy weight through exercise, eating healthily and avoiding smoking can also help to reduce symptoms associated with acid reflux. Whichever methods are employed to reduce symptoms, it is always important to be patient and to try to stay positive when dealing with or trying to manage acid reflux symptoms.
Natural Supplements and Acid Reflux
For those who want to avoid the use of medicine to reduce symptoms of acid reflux there are a range of natural supplements which can be taken. Supplements such as probiotics, digestive enzymes and alkalising agents can all help to reduce the occurrence of acid reflux.
The beneficial bacteria found in probiotics can help to reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach and can also improve digestion, which can help to reduce acid reflux episodes. Alkalising agents can also be used to reduce the amount of acid in the body, while digestive enzymes can help to break down food in the stomach and therefore reduce the pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter.
It is important to remember that these supplements may not work for everyone, and it is always important to seek the advice of a medical professional before taking any new supplement. Additionally, it may be necessary to experiment and find the combination of supplements which work for the individual and help to reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Prescription Drugs and Acid Reflux
In more severe cases of acid reflux, it is likely that the medical advice of a doctor or gastroenterologist will be necessary. A number of prescription drugs are available which are designed to target acid reflux and reduce the symptoms associated with the condition, such as antacids, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers.
It is important to remember that, while these medications can be very effective in reducing acid reflux symptoms, they do have potential side effects. Therefore it is important to be aware of potential risks before taking any medication. Additionally, it is important to note that these drugs do not cure acid reflux, but rather, are designed to reduce the symptoms associated with the condition. Therefore it is important to try other methods of reducing acid reflux before opting for prescription drugs, if possible.
Ultimately, for those suffering from acid reflux, it is important to take the time to explore all available options and identify which methods work best for them. Taking a combination of dietary changes, natural supplements and, if necessary, prescription medications, can be an effective way of managing acid reflux and reducing the symptoms associated with the condition.
