If you drink coffee, you know that in the morning, it’s so important to wake up and get going. Unfortunately, that instant jolt of caffeine can be quite a shock to the system, especially if you haven’t had enough sleep, or if you’re not used to drinking so much coffee.
Although they are two completely different substances, coffee and heartburn have a lot in common. The two are like chalk and cheese—they are both widely enjoyed, and are an essential part of many people’s daily routine.
And, speaking of routines, here’s the thing about heartburn. It occurs quite often, but it is often a symptom of something else. In fact, it may be a symptom of something much more serious.
If you’re reading this, then it’s likely you’re a coffee-loving person. At the same time, you have to be aware of some of coffee’s potentially harmful side-effects.
If you’re concerned about the dangers of drinking coffee then you have to read this article. Caffeine has a lot of side-effects. From causing heartburn to causing insomnia, you need to be aware of the alternatives, which are equally or even more harmful.
What is an heartburn?
Is your belly hurting from indigestion? Do you have a burning feeling in your throat? Some people describe these as a sour feeling that rises from their stomach up to their throat, and others describe it as feeling like their stomach is on fire. This is a common side effect of certain foods, including coffee.
Heartburn is a burning sensation in your chest caused by food and or acid reflux, which most people associate with the stomach. Heartburn is a common problem with a number of different causes.
The science of coffee heartburn
Caffeine consumption has been linked to a number of health issues, and there’s plenty of evidence that links drinking coffee or other caffeine-containing beverages to stomach acid reflux, heartburn, and other gastrointestinal issues.
But, while your doctor might tell you that a cup of coffee or tea might help your heartburn, what they may not tell you is that the science behind coffee-related acid reflux is very complex and unclear, and the best way to treat the problem may not be with coffee at all.
Coffee is well known for triggering heartburn, but the exact reasons for this are not completely understood, and there are varying explanations from scientific studies.
For example, caffeine has been shown to increase the acid secretion in the stomach, and when it combined with coffee, it has been hypothesized that this may be the reason for the heartburn.
What is an acid reflux?
The term ‘acid reflux’ usually refers to the condition that causes the heartburn or indigestion, but there are also other types of reflux that are associated with inflammation of the lower esophageal sphincter, a ring of muscle that separates the stomach from the esophagus. Some people suffer from Acid Reflux but don’t know what it is or how to treat it.
The feeling of burning or discomfort in the chest when you eat, and the uncomfortable feeling of something is not right in the throat is common. About 16% of adults have acid reflux symptoms, and for some people it can be a major problem.
Talk to your doctor to make sure you are getting enough sleep, restricting alcohol and spicy foods and drinking plenty of water.
Can coffee cause acid reflux?
The question “Can coffee cause acid reflux?” has been debated among gastroenterologists, nutritionists and dieticians for years now.
With some doctors claiming coffee is one of the worst things for those suffering from acid reflux or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), while others have claimed the opposite.
The truth is that the answer to this question depends on a lot of factors, for example, the type and amount of acid reflux you have, your age, the quantity and type of coffee you drink, and whether you are a fast or slow blower.
What are the natural ways to prevent acid reflux?
Acid reflux, also known as gastric reflux, is the technical term used for heartburn and indigestion.
These are both symptoms that many people experience from eating too much cereal or spicy food, but many are unaware of the causes. Once you know what causes acid reflux, you can take steps to prevent it.
- Drink low acid coffee
If you enjoy a cup of coffee made from coco beans, but worry about the acid in your coffee causing you to put on weight, then there is good news. More and more coffee roasters are now using low acid coco beans, which help preserve the natural antioxidants in the coffee beans.
This means that you will still get the same benefits from your coffee, but will not have to worry about the extra pounds on your hips.
- Maintain healthy weight
The biggest problem many people have with their weight is that it is not a problem, but an issue. When you eat a healthy diet, and exercise, you can achieve a healthy weight that will help you feel and look your best.
- Stop smoking
Smoking can cause weight gain by giving you an unhealthy taste in your mouth, and it can cause acid reflux.
A painful condition where the acid in your stomach leaks up through your esophagus and is uncomfortable. The best way to prevent these ailments is to stop smoking.
- Don’t lie down after a meal
Sometimes it’s just not possible to lie down after you eat. Maybe you want to watch your movie, or work, or even read.
In these situations, sometimes lying down can increase the chances of developing acid reflux, which is when your stomach acid moves up your esophagus, causing a burning sensation in your throat and chest, and even occasional vomiting.
