How to Drink Coffee Without Heartburn
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages around the world. It’s an excellent source of caffeine, a natural stimulant that can help you feel energized and focused. But for those who already struggle with heartburn, coffee can be especially troublesome. Heartburn is a common digestive problem that can cause burning sensations in your chest or throat and is often caused by certain foods and drinks, such as coffee. To help counteract the potential of heartburn, there are ways to drink coffee without experiencing any negative side effects.
Check your caffeine intake
The first step to avoiding heartburn when drinking coffee is to check your caffeine intake. Caffeine can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), the ring of muscle between the stomach and the esophagus. When this muscle is weakened, the acid from the stomach can move back up into the esophagus, causing heartburn symptoms. Because of this, it’s important to keep track of your caffeine intake and make sure you don’t overdo it. The recommended daily caffeine intake is 400 mg per day for healthy adults, but if you’re prone to heartburn, you may want to cut down to no more than 300 mg per day.
Drink coffee earlier in the day
Coffee can remain in your system for several hours, so it’s important to be mindful of when you’re drinking it. If you’re prone to heartburn after meals, try drinking your coffee earlier in the day and make sure it’s not too close to meals. This will help minimize the risk of experiencing heartburn after eating.
Choose a more acidic blend of coffee
Another way to reduce your risk of heartburn when drinking coffee is to opt for a more acidic blend. Coffee that is lower in acidity is usually milder, and it can be less likely to trigger heartburn. Coffee that’s higher in acidity is usually a bit more robust, and it may increase your risk of heartburn. So, opt for milder blends that are lower in acidity.
Opt for smaller doses of coffee
It’s also important to opt for smaller doses of coffee if you’re prone to heartburn. When it comes to certain foods and drinks that can trigger heartburn, the amount you consume is just as important as what you consume. So, opt for smaller doses of coffee, such as one cup at a time.
Limit the addition of milk and cream
Milk and cream can add richness and flavor to coffee, but they may also irritate the stomach and increase your risk of heartburn. If you’re trying to avoid heartburn, try to limit the amount of milk or cream you add and opt for an alternative, such as almond milk.
Try adding a natural remedy
If you’re having difficulty avoiding heartburn when drinking coffee, trying adding a natural remedy to your cup. Natural remedies, such as apple cider vinegar, ginger, and cardamom, have all been found to potentially help reduce the symptoms of heartburn. Simply add a small amount of any of these natural remedies to your coffee and see if it helps.
Avoid sugar
Sugar is another common ingredient that can trigger heartburn. Even if you’re adding a small amount of sugar to your coffee, it can still contribute to the risk of heartburn. To avoid this, opt for natural sweeteners such as honey or stevia instead.
Wear loose-fitting clothing
As an added precaution, wear loose-fitting clothing when drinking coffee. Tight clothing can place pressure on your stomach and increase the risk of heartburn. So, make sure to wear whatever feels most comfortable when you’re drinking coffee.
Choose decaffeinated coffee
If all else fails, opt for decaf coffee. Decaffeinated coffee still contains small amounts of caffeine, but it’s far lower in acidity, making it a great option for those who are prone to heartburn.
Drink herbal tea instead
If you find that you’re still struggling with heartburn after trying all of the above tips, it’s possible that coffee simply isn’t for you. If this is the case, try drinking herbal tea instead. Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free and various herbal blends can provide health benefits and flavorful choices.
Eat a protein-heavy snack
Eating a protein-rich snack before or after drinking coffee can help to prevent heartburn by providing protection to your stomach lining. The proteins act as a barrier to prevent stomach acid from entering the esophagus.
Avoid trigger foods
Finally, it’s important to avoid trigger foods and drinks that can increase your risk of heartburn. Common foods that can trigger heartburn include spicy and fried foods, citrus fruits and juices, tomato products, chocolate, and alcohol. So, it’s important to avoid these foods and drinks when possible.
Keeping track of your caffeine intake, opting for a more acidic blend of coffee, and adding natural remedies when needed is an effective way to drink coffee without experiencing the symptoms of heartburn. By following these tips, you can enjoy your favorite cup of coffee without having to worry about the potential for uncomfortable symptoms.
