For many, coffee is a non-negotiable part of the daily habit. However, for those who experience heartburn or acid reflux, that morning cup can quickly turn from a comfort to a problem.
Acid reflux happens when stomach acid comes back up into the esophagus, often caused by certain foods and drinks, like coffee. The good news is? Not all coffees are the same.
By picking the right coffee and changing your habits a bit, you can enjoy your drink without any discomfort.
Let’s look at the best coffee choices for people with acid reflux, based on research and expert advice.
Let’s First Understand Coffee’s Role in Acid Reflux
The acidity and caffeine in coffee are the main reasons why it can make heartburn worse. Caffeine makes the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) soften. This muscle stops stomach acid from coming up into the esophagus.
Coffee’s natural acids, like chlorogenic acid, can upset the stomach. Things like the type of roast, how the coffee is brewed, and the amount of caffeine can greatly affect how coffee affects you.
Choosing low-acid, low-caffeine, or carefully processed options can help reduce discomfort.
1. Dark Roasts: Less Acid, Smoother Sip
Dark roast coffee is usually suggested for people with weak stomachs. When coffee beans are roasted, they lose some of their chlorogenic acid, which is connected to increased acidity.
A study in the Molecular Nutrition and Food Research found that dark roast coffee causes less stomach acid production than light roast coffee.
This is partly because of N-methylpyridinium (N-MP), a substance created during long roasting, which might help reduce extra stomach acid.
Tip: Look for beans labeled “French roast” or “Italian roast” for a bold flavor with reduced acidity.
2. Cold Brew Coffee: Gentle on the Gut
Cold brew coffee is made by soaking coffee grounds in cold water for 12 to 24 hours. This method makes it less acidic than coffee brewed with hot water.
A study by the American Chemical Society found that cold brew coffee has a pH of about 6.3, which is closer to normal.
In contrast, hot coffee has a pH between 4.5 and 5.5. The cold extraction method gets less acidity from the beans, making the drink smoother and easier on the stomach.
Tip: Avoid adding citrus or sugary syrups to cold brew, as these can counteract its low-acid benefits.
3. Decaf Coffee: Cutting Back on Caffeine
Decaffeinated coffee is a good option for people with heartburn because caffeine can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
A study in Gastroenterology found that even a little coffee can cause acid reflux in people who are sensitive to it.
Decaf coffee still has some caffeine, about 2–5 mg per cup compared to 95 mg in regular coffee. This lower amount can still be helpful.
Choose Swiss Water Process decaf, which doesn’t use chemicals and keeps the taste without added substances.
Note: Avoid dark roasts labeled “espresso decaf,” as they may still be high in acidity.
4. Low-Acid Coffees: Designed for Sensitivity
Puroast and Tyler’s Acid-Free Coffee are brands that focus on making low-acid coffee. These beans are usually cooked slowly or treated in ways that reduce acidity.
For example, Puroast has a unique cooking method that lowers acidity by 70% compared to regular coffee, according to a study from the University of California, Davis.
Other choices include coffees made from beans grown at lower altitudes, which are usually less acidic, or beans that have been washed in a way to reduce acidity.
Popular Low-Acid Brands:
- HealthWise (pH 6.2)
- Lucy Jo’s Coffee Roastery (organic, low-acid)
Follow These Additional Tips for Coffee Lovers with Acid Reflux
- Drink in Moderation: Limit yourself to 1–2 cups daily.
- Avoid Empty Stomachs: Pair coffee with a small snack to buffer stomach acid.
- Skip Additives: Creamers, sugar, and artificial sweeteners can worsen reflux. Try almond milk or oat milk instead.
- Elevate Your Routine: Wait at least 30 minutes after drinking coffee before lying down.
- Try Alkaline Add-Ins: A pinch of baking soda (a natural antacid) can neutralize coffee’s acidity.
The Science Behind the Solutions
To enjoy coffee with acid reflux, it’s important to know what’s in it. Chlorogenic acid and caffeine are the main causes of irritation, but oils found in espresso can also increase acid production.
Cold brewing, dark roasting, and decaffeination help by lowering acidity, cutting down caffeine, or changing the coffee’s chemical composition.