Whats better for heartburn...cold brew or hot coffee?

by John Herriott

Heartburn triggers can vary from person to person, and factors such as the type of coffee and its preparation method can influence whether it contributes to heartburn or alleviates symptoms. It's important to note that individual responses to coffee can differ. That being said, some general considerations are:

  1. Acidity:

    • Cold brew coffee is often perceived as less acidic than hot coffee. The cold brewing process tends to extract fewer acidic compounds from the coffee grounds, potentially making cold brew a gentler option for those sensitive to acidity. Hot coffee, on the other hand, may be more acidic, and acidity can contribute to heartburn for some individuals.

  2. Compounds in Coffee:

    • Coffee contains compounds like catechols and N-alkanoyl-5-hydroxytryptamides, which may stimulate acid production in the stomach. These compounds can be present in both hot and cold coffee, but their concentrations may vary.

  3. Caffeine Content:

    • Caffeine is known to relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), allowing stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, potentially contributing to heartburn. Both hot and cold coffee contain caffeine, so individuals sensitive to caffeine should consider their overall intake.

  4. Personal Sensitivity:

    • Some people may find that one type of coffee (hot or cold) is better tolerated than the other based on their individual sensitivity to temperature, acidity, or other factors.

If you experience heartburn after consuming coffee, here are some general tips:

  • Choose Low-Acidity Coffee:

    • Opt for coffee with lower acidity. Some coffee varieties and blends are naturally lower in acidity, and cold brew may be a good option for those seeking a less acidic coffee.

  • Consider Decaffeinated Coffee:

    • Caffeine can contribute to heartburn, so choosing decaffeinated coffee may be helpful for individuals sensitive to caffeine.

  • Limit Additives:

    • Be cautious with additives like milk and cream, as high-fat dairy products can contribute to heartburn in some individuals.

  • Monitor Portion Size:

    • Consuming smaller portions of coffee may help reduce the likelihood of heartburn.

It's essential to pay attention to your body's responses and identify what works best for you. If you have persistent or severe heartburn, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and potential underlying issues.

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