What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux, clinically known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a digestive disorder characterized by chronic acid reflux, or the regurgitation of stomach contents back up into the esophagus. Symptoms of acid reflux can include heartburn, gas, chest pain, sour taste in the mouth, bloating, and sore throat. While the majority of acid reflux is not serious and can be easily managed, if left untreated long-term, it can lead to significant health problems, such as Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer.
What are the Causes of Acid Reflux?
The most common cause of acid reflux is an excess amount of stomach acid, which can be triggered by food sensitivities or allergies, eating large meals, and certain lifestyle choices. Caffeinated beverages, alcohol, chocolate, and spicy foods can all cause the sphincters that control the flow of stomach acid to relax, allowing acid to pass into the esophagus. Stress and other emotional triggers can also cause acid reflux.
What are the Effects of Caffeinated Beverages on Acid Reflux?
Caffeinated beverages, like coffee, tea, and energy drinks, have been linked to having an aggravating effect on acid reflux. Caffeine has the ability to relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the muscle that keeps stomach contents from passing back up into the esophagus. Not only does this cause stomach acid to back up, but it also increases the risk of developing GERD.
Should You Drink Coffee if you Have Acid Reflux?
Whether or not to drink coffee if you have acid reflux can be a difficult decision. A lot of people rely on their morning cup of coffee to give them the energy to start their day, so it can be really hard to give it up. However, this doesn’t mean you have to give up on coffee altogether. There are lots of ways you can still enjoy a cup of joe without triggering an episode of acid reflux.
One of the first things to avoid is drinking caffeinated beverages on an empty stomach. When you drink coffee on an empty stomach, the caffeine can cause the LES to open, allowing stomach acid to pass back up into the esophagus and triggering acid reflux. Instead, try drinking your coffee with breakfast or a snack to give your body a cushion to absorb the caffeine and the acids.
It can also be beneficial to avoid drinking large amounts of coffee in one sitting. Caffeine is a stimulant, and if consumed in large amounts all at once, it can cause heartburn and other GERD symptoms. Instead, opt to drink multiple cups throughout the day rather than drinking one large one.
If you’re particularly sensitive to acidic foods and drinks, you might consider switching to an alkaline roasted coffee. These types of coffee are typically milder and lower in acidity, which can make them more tolerable for those with acid reflux.
Finally, if you find yourself having recurrent acid reflux even when you’re doing your best to drink coffee responsibly, it might be time to take a break from drinking it for a while. There are plenty of non-caffeinated alternatives out there, so you’re still able to get your morning pick-me-up without triggering your symptoms.
Easing Acid Reflux Symptoms with an Acid Reflux Diet
In addition to avoiding certain foods or drinks that make your acid reflux worse, an acid reflux diet can be beneficial in helping to manage and reduce symptoms. An acid reflux diet will focus on identifying and eliminating certain trigger foods, as well as prioritizing low-acid foods that can be eaten without triggering an episode of acid reflux.
The diet portion of treatment can be particularly beneficial to those who suffer from chronic acid reflux. Limiting the amount of certain foods and drinks, particularly those that are acidic, can help to keep the LES closed and reduce the amount of acid that passes back up into the esophagus.
Medical Treatment for Acid Reflux
There are a variety of medications available for managing acid reflux. The most common are antacids, which work to neutralize the acid in the stomach, and proton pump inhibitors, which block acid production. But even these medications can be ineffective for those with severe cases of acid reflux.
Surgery is also an option for those who have tried all other forms of treatment and have not experienced relief. Surgery involves either stretching or strengthening the lower esophageal sphincter or wrapping part of the stomach around the esophagus to prevent stomach acid from entering.
Alternative Treatments for Acid Reflux
In addition to avoiding certain foods, drinking plenty of water, and taking certain medications, there are a number of alternative treatments that can be beneficial in helping to manage acid reflux symptoms. These include incorporating certain herbs or supplements, such as slippery elm or licorice root, into your diet.
Another alternative treatment option is acupuncture. This ancient Chinese practice focuses on targeting specific points in the body with tiny needles in order to promote healing and reduce inflammation. Studies have shown that it may be effective in reducing GERD symptoms.
Finally, lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, reducing stress, giving up smoking, and making sure to keep at least a three hour gap between eating and going to bed can also be beneficial in reducing symptoms of acid reflux.
Behavioral Changes to Consider
In addition to changing your diet and making lifestyle changes, there are a few behavioral changes that can help to decrease acid reflux symptoms. Eating smaller meals more frequently can help the stomach to empty more quickly, limiting the amount of time that acid can sit in the stomach.
Elevating the head of the bed can also be beneficial in relieving symptoms of acid reflux. This is because gravity works against the flow of stomach acid, making it harder for it to pass into the esophagus. Additionally, sleeping on the left side can be beneficial, as the stomach empties more quickly on this side.
Conclusion
While acid reflux can be difficult to manage, there are a variety of treatments and lifestyle changes that can be beneficial in relieving symptoms. Limiting the amount of caffeine you consume and avoiding certain trigger foods can be beneficial in keeping acid reflux at bay. Additionally, there are a variety of alternative treatments, such as herbs, supplements, and acupuncture, that may help to reduce symptoms. Finally, making changes to your diet, lifestyle, and behaviors can also help to reduce acid reflux.
