Most health professionals would agree that coffee is definitely one of the major triggers for acid reflux and heartburn.
About one fifth of our nations coffee drinkers suffer from the disease.
Doctors are now advising their patients to restrict the amount of coffee they drink.
Does this mean that we have to give up our beloved java and do without the “caffeine kick” that we have grown to love and need? Are we destined to be without our”morning cup of joe”?
Not really, some say. Although the connection that links coffee as one of the leading causes of acid reflux is very strong, there maybe some good news that offers real help to all of us that drink the black stuff.
Coffee can now be produced with much less acid-causing agents with a technology known as Hevla.
In the Hevla process, coffee beans undergo a high-pressure steaming which removes the acid-causing contaminants. The result is a much less stomach irritating cup of coffee that still has the same deep, rich flavor.
Low acid coffee is very helpful for people who have become hypersensitive to elevated acid levels in the stomach.
Coffee has ingredients that excite the production of hydrochloric acid and pepsin in the stomach, which in turn generates the onset of acid reflux.
Coffee Studies
There are studies that have indicated that low acid coffee, which is rich in a different compound, works the opposite with the stomach, actually diminishing the production of acid.
The acid in coffee has been established as the main component that aggravates the symptoms of heartburn in patients that have been diagnosed with GERD.
Doctors will tell you however that coffee itself is not the main cause of acid reflux. Even though there have been many breakthroughs, there is still no one cause connected with this disease.
Coffee is just one of the many beverages and foods that are limited for someone who has acid reflux.
Decaffeinated coffee was developed in the 1930’s as a way of making coffee a little more of a harmless drink. Since that time, people who have trouble coping with the effects of caffeine can now enjoy a great cup of coffee.
Herbal Alternatives
Those who love coffee can enjoy herbal alternatives that provide a rich, smooth taste. Chicory root and dandelion root are two alternatives that are healthy to drink. Use them individually or blend together for a richer flavour.
There are Ayurvedic coffee alternatives made from herbal adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Shatavari and Brahmi. These herbs promote strength, stability, immunity and increase mental clarity. They are often blended with roasted rye and roasted barley.
Medicinal mushrooms are another awesome coffee alternative to drink that is easy on those who suffer from acid reflux.
These medicinal mushrooms include reishi, lion’s mane, chaga, cordyceps, turkey tail, shiitake and maitake.
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