Caffeine and Heartburn
Coffee is known to contain caffeine. Caffeine, in turn, is known to reduce the activity of a muscle in the digestive system, known as the lower esophageal sphincter or LES. This muscle is responsible for stopping stomach acids from moving up into the esophagus, where it will cause heartburn or acid reflux in those who have it. The weak LES can cause the stomach acids and contents to move up into the esophagus, and this is a potential problem when drinking coffee as caffeine can relax the muscle, which can lead to increased symptoms.
Avoiding caffeine
The most effective way to avoid heartburn when drinking coffee is to avoid caffeinated beverages altogether. This may seem like a drastic step, but it is often the most effective way to reduce symptoms and improve overall health. Caffeine can also irritate the stomach, leading to increased secretion of stomach acids, and acid reflux when consumed in large quantities. Those who want to avoid heartburn when drinking coffee should opt for caffeine-free alternatives like herbal tea or decaf coffee.
Digestion and Acid Reflux
Besides avoiding caffeine, there are other ways to reduce the risk of experiencing heartburn when drinking coffee. Eating smaller meals can help the body digest food more quickly, which helps to reduce pressure on the lower esophageal sphincter. Also, lying down after eating can help to reduce the risk of heartburn, as lying down relaxes the LES and reduces the amount of acid that is able to move up into the esophagus. Finally, eating foods that are known to trigger heartburn or acid reflux should be avoided, as these can make symptoms worse.
Avoiding Coffee Before Bedtime
Another way to avoid heartburn when drinking coffee is to avoid drinking coffee right before bed. Coffee stimulates the production of stomach acid, which is necessary for digestion. When consumed near bedtime, this acid can cause heartburn or acid reflux during the night, as the person lies down. Therefore, it is best to refrain from drinking caffeinated beverages, including coffee, several hours before going to bed.
Correction Foods
Eating a healthy diet can also help to reduce the odds of experiencing heartburn when drinking coffee. Eating foods high in fiber, such as raw vegetables and fruits, can help to reduce symptoms. These high-fiber foods absorb excess acid in the stomach, reducing symptoms. Drinking plenty of water can also help to reduce symptoms, as it can help to flush acid out of the system. Additionally, eating smaller meals more often can help to keep the LES active and reduce the chances of acid reflux.
Heartburn Medicine
Finally, there are several over-the-counter medications that can help to reduce symptoms. Antacids, for example, act quickly to neutralize stomach acid, providing immediate symptom relief. There are also medications that can reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach, such as proton-pump inhibitors and H2 blockers. These medications are used to treat long-term acid reflux and heartburn.
Effects of Caffeine in Coffee
Caffeine is a stimulant, which can increase heart rate and blood pressure. It can also cause a surge of adrenaline, which can cause the body to tense up and contract the LES muscle, allowing stomach acid to move up into the esophagus. In addition, caffeine is a diuretic and can cause dehydration. Dehydration can lead to further relaxation of the LES muscle, which can increase symptoms of heartburn.
Alternatives to Caffeine
For those who still want to enjoy coffee without the heartburn symptoms, there are alternatives. Herbal teas, decaffeinated coffee, and coffee substitutes are options that are caffeine-free and may be easier on the digestive system. Additionally, certain coffees, such as cold brew and espresso, contain less caffeine than regular brewed coffee, and may be a better choice for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
Health Benefits of Coffee
Despite the potential for heartburn, there are still health benefits of drinking coffee. Coffee is loaded with beneficial antioxidants, and it can help promote alertness and concentration. Additionally, coffee can help to reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancer. Therefore, it can be beneficial to drink coffee in moderation, as long as it does not lead to uncomfortable heartburn.
Drinking Coffee with Acid Reflux
People who suffer from acid reflux should take special precaution when drinking coffee. They should avoid highly caffeinated brews, as they can make symptoms worse. Instead, they should opt for light Roast or Dark Roast blends, which contain the lowest levels of caffeine. Additionally, they should limit their consumption to one cup per day, as excessive caffeine intake can exacerbate heartburn symptoms.
Tips for Drinking Coffee without Heartburn
Ultimately, the best way to reduce the risk of heartburn when drinking coffee is to avoid caffeine as much as possible. If that is not an option, then it is important to stay mindful of the foods and drinks consumed beforehand. Eating smaller meals, eating more high-fiber foods, avoiding lying down after eating, and avoiding caffeine before bedtime can all help to reduce the risk of experiencing severe heartburn when drinking coffee.
