In the age of health-consciousness and ‘clean eating’, it’s no surprise that H pylori and coffee have become a topical discussion. H pylori is a bacteria that causes an infection in the digestive tract, while coffee has made its way from a ‘morning must-have’ to a health drink that boasts various therapeutic benefits. Yet, the question remains: can coffee be consumed when infected with H pylori? In this article, we’ll unravel the true story of coffee and H pylori.
What is H pylori
H pylori is a Gram-negative, spiral-shaped bacteria living in the stomach and small intestine of humans. It is one of the leading causes of infection in developed countries, leading to various digestive issues such as:
- Stomach ulcers
- Stomach cancer
- Severe stomach pain
Although the effects of H pylori on human health remain largely unknown, it’s recommended to treat the infection. Treatment protocols typically involve antibiotics and proton pump inhibitors.
What are the Health and Nutritional Benefits of Coffee?
There is a long-standing debate surrounding the health benefits of coffee. Many current studies suggest that including it as part of a balanced diet may have a positive effect on overall health and wellness. Coffee is rich in nutrients, antioxidants and minerals which can potentially have a positive effect on brain health, increase energy levels, reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, and protect against Alzheimer’s disease. In addition, coffee can even act as an appetite suppressant, making it an ideal addition to those on a diet or weight-loss journey.
Can I Drink Coffee with an H pylori Infection?
Since H pylori is a bacterial infection that affects the digestive system, it can be further aggravated by drinking caffeine. As a result, many gastroenterologists recommend abstaining from coffee during the course of treatment. Studies conducted on the impact of coffee on H pylori infection suggest that consumption of high doses of caffeine can reduce the bacteria’s sensitivity to antibiotics, making it harder to treat the infection. In addition, hot and spicy foods and beverages tend to worsen H pylori symptoms.
Therefore, if you have been diagnosed with H pylori infection, it’s best to stay away from coffee until the infection has been treated.
What are the Alternatives to Drinking Coffee with H pylori?
If you’re a coffee connoisseur, the thought of abstaining from coffee due to H pylori infection may be a tough pill to swallow. Fortunately, there are healthier alternatives to coffee that can provide the same kick. Here are some of the top alternatives:
- Green Tea: Green tea is rich in antioxidants and different micronutrients that can benefit your overall health. It also contains caffeine, which can act as a natural stimulant.
- Kombucha: Kombucha is fermented tea with probiotic benefits. It has far fewer caffeine and sugar content than coffee, making it a much healthier beverage.
- Matcha: Matcha is a powerful form of green tea with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits. It is much more potent than regular tea and can provide an energy boost.
Can Coffee Help Treat H Pylori?
In some cases, coffee may even be beneficial in treating H pylori. Studies conducted in mice suggest that coffee may help reduce the inflammation caused by H pylori infection. Although human trials are needed to confirm the results, drinking coffee during the infection may offer beneficial effects.
Are There Any Risk Factors Associated With Coffee and H pylori?
While coffee may have potential benefits in treating H pylori infection, it’s important to note that there are certain risk factors associated with mixing coffee and H pylori. Consumption of large amounts of caffeine can increase the acidity of the stomach, which can worsen H pylori symptoms. Moreover, it’s important to ensure that your coffee is prepared with filtered and clean water to prevent contracted an illness.
How Can I Reduce the Symptoms of H pylori?
The best way to reduce the symptoms of H pylori infection is to follow a balanced diet that is rich in fibre and probiotic foods. A diet rich in probiotics and fermented foods can help restore the balance of the gut microbiome and in turn, aid in the treatment of H pylori infection. It is also recommended to switch to natural herbs for flavouring and reduce the intake of processed and preserved foods.
Is Organic Coffee Safe For H pylori?
Simply opting for organic coffee won’t truly make it any safer for H pylori. Coffee is a natural source of caffeine and should be consumed in moderation, regardless of its origin.
Should I Drink Coffee During Treatment?
It’s best to avoid coffee during H pylori treatment as a precautionary measure. Drinking coffee can aggravate the infection and make it more difficult to treat. However, once the infection is treated, you can resume your coffee intake as per your usual preferences.
The Bottom Line
Drinking coffee while infected with H pylori can worsen the symptoms. It is best to abstain from drinking coffee during treatment and switch to healthier alternatives such as green tea and matcha. However, it’s important to consider that caffeine is a stimulant and should be consumed in moderation regardless of the infection.
