Coffee is a popular beverage around the world and many people drink it every day. However, some people suffer from a condition known as Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). This disorder is caused by acids refluxing into the esophagus and can have unpleasant effects, including pain and burning sensations. One of the common questions is whether people who suffer from GERD should avoid coffee altogether or if it is possible to safely consume it.
Experts generally agree that people with GERD who want to keep enjoying their coffee should make some lifestyle changes. Dr. Ninad Jekereshwari, who specializes in digestive diseases and GERD, says the following: “Coffee, if ingested in small quantities and taken with food or snacks, may not trigger GERD symptoms. However, individuals should reduce their intake of coffee and replace it with healthier options, like water or herbal tea.”
Those with GERD may also want to avoid certain types of coffee, like espresso, cappuccinos and lattes, as they are more acidic than regular coffees. This can cause the levels of gastric acid to increase and may worsen the symptoms of GERD. On the other hand, coffee that is low in caffeine and acidity, such as decaffeinated coffee and cold brews, may be better tolerated by those with GERD and may even provide relief.
It is also important to pay attention to how you prepare your coffee. Adding milk or cream can help to reduce the acidity of the coffee, and drinking it with snacks can help to buffer the acid. Additionally, sipping coffee slowly and avoiding drinking it on an empty stomach can help to reduce the risk of experiencing GERD symptoms.
Finally, if you have GERD and you love coffee, it is important to monitor your symptoms and make adjustments as needed. Some people may find that even decaffeinated coffee and cold brews trigger symptoms, while others may be able to tolerate them. Keeping a journal with your coffee consumption and the associated symptoms can help to identify the types and amounts of coffee that bring you the most pleasure without causing discomfort.
Lifestyle Changes
People with GERD may want to consider some lifestyle changes that can help to reduce their risk of experiencing symptoms. Eating smaller meals and avoiding late night eating can reduce the amount of acid in the stomach and lessen the chances of symptoms flaring up. Additionally, exercising regularly and boosting the metabolism can help reduce the risk of acid reflux.
Avoiding certain types of food and drinks can also help reduce symptoms. Some of the foods to avoid include spicy foods, tomato sauces, citrus fruits, chocolate and alcohol. Fried and fatty food may also trigger GERD symptoms and should be limited.
Finally, it is important to quit smoking if you are a smoker, as smoking can weaken the lower esophageal sphincter and cause acid reflux. Additionally, some researchers believe that nicotine can contribute to the reflux of stomach acid. For these reasons, quitting smoking is essential for anyone who wants to reduce the symptoms of GERD.
Medication
There are a variety of medication options that can help to manage GERD symptoms, though it is important to consult your doctor or specialist to determine which medication is right for you. Proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, are a type of medication prescribed to reduce the amount of stomach acid produced, while H2 receptor antagonists may also be an option. Over the counter medication can also help to reduce the symptoms associated with GERD.
Antacids, such as Tums or Rolaids, can help to neutralize stomach acid and provide fast relief. It is important not to rely on antacids too much, as they are meant to be used for occasional relief. Additionally, prokinetic drugs may be used to reduce the reflux of acids back in the stomach.
Alternative Therapies
Other alternatives for those looking to deal with GERD include complementary and alternative therapies. Acupuncture may help to treat symptoms by stimulating certain points of the body and providing relaxation to the digestive tract. Likewise, yoga and breathing exercises can help to relax the stomach and reduce GERD symptoms.
Herbal remedies, such as ginger and chamomile, may be beneficial in reducing the symptoms of GERD. Additionally, some people have reported relief from licorice root, slippery elm and dandelion root. It is important to speak to your doctor before trying any of these herbs, to ensure they are right for you.
Surgery
In some cases, medications and lifestyle changes are not enough to treat GERD. In these cases, surgery may be needed to help relieve the symptoms. Surgery can help to correct any anatomical abnormalities, such as a hiatal hernia, that may be causing the symptoms. Most surgeries related to GERD involve the tightening of the lower esophageal sphincter, in order to reduce the reflux of acidic stomach contents.
To determine if surgery is the right choice for you, it is important to consult with a specialist and have a thorough evaluation. Your doctor can explain the risks, benefits and possible outcomes of the procedure and help you decide the best course of action to manage your GERD.
Supplements
In some cases, supplements may help with GERD symptoms as well. Aloe vera juice can help to soothe the stomach and reduce inflammation, while probiotics and digestive enzymes can help to repair the digestive tract and reduce GERD symptoms. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation, which may help to reduce GERD symptoms.
It is important to speak to your doctor before taking any supplements, to ensure that they are the right choice for you. Additionally, you should let them know what supplements you are taking to ensure that they do not interact with any other medications you may be taking.
Final Thoughts
For those with GERD, drinking coffee can be a tricky prospect. Although it may not be necessary to give up coffee altogether, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and make the necessary adjustments to reduce your risk of experiencing symptoms. Additionally, making lifestyle changes, taking medications and exploring alternative therapies can further reduce the chances of experiencing GERD symptoms.
