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Does Coffee Cause Acid Reflux? (And What to Do About It)

Education · From the Lab ·

Does Coffee Cause Acid Reflux? (And What to Do About It)

If you've been told to give up coffee because of acid reflux, you might be relieved to know the science is more complicated than that advice suggests. Yes, coffee can trigger reflux for some people, but for many others, it doesn't. And even if it does affect you, the type of coffee and how you drink it matters more than most people realize.

Person holding coffee cup outdoors with text about coffee and reflux

If you've been told to give up coffee because of acid reflux, you might be relieved to know the science is more complicated than that advice suggests. Yes, coffee can trigger reflux for some people, but for many others, it doesn't. And even if it does affect you, the type of coffee and how you drink it matters more than most people realize.

Let's look at what the research actually shows, because the answer isn't simply "coffee is bad for GERD."

Two women drinking coffee and talking by campfire outdoors

What Happens When You Drink Coffee

Coffee affects your digestive system through several mechanisms, and understanding them helps explain why responses vary so much between people.

Lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation: The LES is the muscle that keeps stomach acid from backing up into your esophagus. Research published in Gastroenterology90922-1/fulltext) found that coffee, at both regular and neutralized pH, decreased LES pressure in both healthy volunteers and patients with reflux esophagitis. 

Gastric acid secretion: Coffee stimulates your stomach to produce more acid. According to research from the New England Journal of Medicine, caffeine stimulates gastric acid secretion through bitter taste receptors in your stomach lining.

Multiple compounds at work: Here's something important, studies show that adding caffeine to water alone doesn't cause reflux the way coffee does. This suggests other compounds in coffee, not just caffeine, contribute to the effect.

What the Research Actually Shows

Here's where it gets interesting. The scientific evidence on coffee and GERD is genuinely mixed.

Studies showing no significant association:

A meta-analysis of 15 case-control studies found no significant association between coffee intake and GERD (odds ratio: 1.06, essentially no increased risk).

A cross-sectional study of 1,837 participants found that "drinking tea or coffee, with or without milk or sugar, was not associated with reflux symptoms or erosive esophagitis" after controlling for other variables. The actual risk factors? Hiatus hernia, H. pylori infection, gender, and BMI.

Studies showing increased risk:

The Nurses' Health Study II31380-1/fulltext) found that coffee, tea, and soda intake was associated with increased GER symptoms, with risk increasing alongside daily servings.

The bottom line from research:

A comprehensive PMC review examined 28 individual studies: 15 showed no connection, 2 showed protective effects, and 11 reported symptom aggravation. The review concluded that coffee "should not be routinely recommended to avoid" in all patients with GI symptoms.

Translation: your individual response matters more than population-level statistics.

Why Some Coffee Bothers You More Than Others

Not all coffee affects your stomach equally. The roast level, brewing method, and what you add to it all influence how your digestive system responds.

Dark Roast Is Gentler

This one has solid science behind it. A 2014 study compared dark and medium roast coffee's effects on gastric acid secretion. The findings:

Dark roast coffee contains significantly more N-Methylpyridinium (NMP) at 87 mg/L compared to medium roast at just 29 mg/L, meaning darker roasts have about three times more of this beneficial compound. NMP actually inhibits stomach acid production and forms during the roasting process, which is why darker roasts are gentler on your stomach. Dark roasts also have lower levels of chlorogenic acids and other compounds that stimulate acid secretion, making switching to dark roast one of the most evidence-backed changes you can make if coffee bothers your stomach.

Cold Brew Extracts Less Acid

Research from Scientific Reports found that while cold brew and hot brew have similar pH (both around 4.85-5.13), hot brew has significantly higher titratable acidity, meaning more total acid content.

Cold brew's 12-24 hour extraction at low temperatures pulls fewer acidic compounds from the grounds. If hot coffee triggers symptoms, cold brew is worth trying.

Brewing Method Matters

Quick extraction methods minimize acid content:

  • Espresso: Short contact time, less acid extracted
  • Paper filters: Trap acidic oils that metal filters let through
  • Avoid over-extraction: Don't let coffee sit on grounds too long

Decaf Reduces (But Doesn't Eliminate) Reflux

A 1997 study in reflux patients found that switching to decaf reduced the time esophageal pH stayed below 4 from 17.9% to just 3.1%, a dramatic improvement.

But decaf isn't a complete solution. The New England Journal of Medicine research found that decaffeinated coffee still produced similar gastric acid responses to regular coffee, both higher than caffeine alone. Other compounds in coffee contribute to acid production regardless of caffeine content.

Woman drinking coffee while friend holds cup in coffee shop

Practical Strategies That Actually Help

Based on the research, here's what Cleveland Clinic and other medical sources recommend:

Modifications to Try First

  1. Never drink coffee on an empty stomach, food buffers stomach acids
  2. Switch to dark roast, higher NMP, lower acid-stimulating compounds
  3. Try cold brew, lower titratable acidity
  4. Use paper filters, trap acidic oils
  5. Limit to 3 cups maximum, symptoms often worsen with higher intake
  6. Skip the cream, high-fat additions delay gastric emptying
  7. Consider decaf, significantly reduces (but doesn't eliminate) symptoms

What Mayo Clinic Says

Here's something that might surprise you. Mayo Clinic's guidance on GERD is clear: "A restrictive diet is usually not necessary to control symptoms."

Their recommendation: only avoid foods that *you* know worsen *your* symptoms. Don't eliminate coffee preemptively, track your individual response and make decisions based on what you actually experience.

The Personalized Approach

  1. Start with modifications, dark roast, cold brew, with food
  2. Keep a symptom diary, note what you drank and how you felt
  3. Try elimination if needed, if symptoms persist despite modifications
  4. Work with your doctor, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent

What This Means for Coffee Lovers with GERD

The research suggests most people with GERD can continue enjoying coffee with the right modifications. Complete elimination isn't necessary for everyone, and might not even help if coffee isn't actually your trigger.

That said, individual variation is real. Some people are genuinely sensitive to coffee regardless of how they prepare it. If you've tried dark roast, cold brew, drinking with food, and limiting intake, and symptoms persist, coffee may simply not work for you.

But don't give up before trying the modifications. The difference between a light roast on an empty stomach and a dark roast cold brew with breakfast can be dramatic.

How Air Roasting Fits In

At Ember, we air-roast our coffee, which produces a cleaner, smoother cup than traditional drum roasting. While air roasting isn't specifically studied for GERD, the principles that make dark roast gentler still apply: thorough, even roasting that develops NMP and reduces harsh compounds.

Combined with dark roast profiles and our lower-acid organic beans, it's a combination that many of our customers with sensitive stomachs appreciate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is coffee bad for acid reflux?

Not universally. Meta-analyses show no significant association between coffee and GERD at the population level. Individual responses vary dramatically. Many people with reflux can enjoy coffee with modifications like dark roast, cold brew, or drinking with food.

Does decaf coffee help with acid reflux?

It helps significantly but isn't a complete solution. Research shows decaf reduces reflux symptoms substantially, but coffee contains compounds beyond caffeine that affect stomach acid production.

What's the best coffee for acid reflux?

Dark roast, cold brew, or espresso, prepared with paper filters and consumed with food. Dark roasts contain more N-methylpyridinium (NMP), which inhibits stomach acid production. Cold brew has lower total acid content.

Should I give up coffee if I have GERD?

Not necessarily. Mayo Clinic advises against blanket elimination. Try modifications first, track your symptoms, and only eliminate coffee if it's clearly a trigger for you personally.

Does the type of milk I add matter?

Yes. High-fat dairy can delay gastric emptying and worsen symptoms. If you add milk, choose low-fat or plant-based alternatives. Skip heavy creamers entirely.

Two women sharing iced coffee on couch in colorful coffee shop

The Bottom Line

Coffee and acid reflux have a complicated relationship, more complicated than "just avoid it." The research shows that most people with GERD don't need to give up coffee entirely. What matters more is *how* you drink it: roast level, brewing method, timing, and what you eat alongside it.

If coffee bothers you, try the modifications before giving up. Dark roast, cold brew, with food, through a paper filter, these changes can make a real difference. And if you've been avoiding coffee because you assumed it was off-limits, you might have more options than you thought.

At Ember, we believe coffee should work for you, not against you. Our air-roasted, organic beans are crafted for a clean, smooth cup, the kind that's easier on your system while still tasting like real coffee.

Shop our air-roasted coffees →

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Farmers watched helplessly as their carefully tended plants withered under the scorching sun or succumbed to the icy grip of frost. The result? A staggering 40% reduction in yields in some areas. Unseasonal Deluges: Meanwhile, in Vietnam, the second-largest coffee producer globally, unseasonal rains have wreaked havoc. Coffee cherries, which should have been ripening under gentle sunshine, instead rotted on the branches, leading to significant crop losses and quality issues. Geopolitical Jitters: As if weather woes weren't enough, the coffee market found itself caught in a political crossfire. In early 2025, rumors swirled about potential U.S. tariffs on Colombian coffee. Though never implemented, the mere whisper of trade restrictions sent prices soaring by 15% in just a week, highlighting the fragility of global coffee trade relationships. Supply Chain Snarls: The journey of coffee beans from farm to cup has become increasingly complex and costly. Ongoing logistical challenges, exacerbated by fuel price hikes and labor shortages, have inflated transportation costs. The price of shipping a container of coffee has tripled since 2023, adding another layer of pressure to already strained margins. Market Speculation: As news of crop failures and potential shortages spread like wildfire, market speculators pounced. Their actions drove coffee futures to unprecedented heights, with the C-market price for Arabica coffee reaching a jaw-dropping $3.84 per pound in February 2025 – a 47-year high. The Ripple Effect Reaches Minnesota Here at Ember Coffee, nestled in the heart of Minnesota's vibrant coffee scene, we've felt the tremors of these global shifts. The impact on our operations and community has been profound: Margin Squeeze: Green coffee now accounts for a staggering 60-70% of our production costs, up from 40-50% just two years ago. This dramatic increase, coupled with rising energy and labor costs, has put immense pressure on our margins. Sourcing Struggles: Maintaining the consistent flavor profiles our customers love has become increasingly challenging. We've had to be more flexible in our sourcing, sometimes substituting origins or adjusting roast profiles to compensate for changes in bean characteristics. Pricing Predicaments: As a community-focused roaster, we're acutely aware of the impact price increases have on our customers. We've been forced to make difficult decisions about when and how to adjust our pricing to reflect the new market realities while remaining accessible to our loyal patrons. Crafting a Sustainable Future, One Bean at a Time Despite these challenges, we at Ember Coffee believe that this crisis presents an opportunity for positive change. Like the phoenix rising from the ashes, we're determined to emerge stronger and more sustainable. Here's how we're adapting: Nurturing Direct Trade Relationships: We're doubling down on our direct trade partnerships, offering long-term contracts at stable prices to our farmer partners. This approach not only secures our access to high-quality beans but also provides farmers with the financial security to invest in sustainable practices and climate adaptation measures. Diversifying Our Offerings: To offset rising costs and keep things exciting for our customers, we're expanding our product range. Limited edition micro-lots, experimental processing methods, and unique Minnesota-inspired coffee blends are just a few of the innovations we're exploring. Empowering Through Education: We believe that an informed customer is a loyal customer. We've launched a series on Roasting 101 on our YouTube site, and we're planning a Coffee 101 cupping sessions at our Big Lake roastery. These programs help our community understand the complexities of coffee production and pricing, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft behind each cup. The Power of the Minnesota Coffee Lover As we navigate these challenges, the support and understanding of our customers are more crucial than ever. Here's how Minnesota coffee enthusiasts can contribute to a more sustainable coffee ecosystem: Embrace Transparency: We encourage our customers to ask questions about pricing, sourcing, and roasting practices. Understanding the true cost of producing exceptional coffee can help justify price adjustments when necessary. Value Quality Over Quantity: By choosing to invest in higher-quality, ethically sourced coffee, consumers can help support fair wages for farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Support Local Roasters: Minnesota's local roasters, like Ember Coffee, are deeply invested in our communities. By choosing local over national chains, consumers help keep money circulating in the local economy and support businesses that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing. Experiment with Brewing Methods: Different brewing methods can extract unique flavors from coffee beans. By exploring various brewing techniques, consumers can maximize the value and enjoyment they get from each bag of coffee. Envisioning a Brighter Future for Minnesota Coffee As we look to the horizon, we see challenges, but also immense potential. Our vision for the future of specialty coffee in Minnesota is one of resilience, innovation, and community: A More Resilient Supply Chain: We're exploring collaborations with other Minnesota roasters to potentially secure better prices and more stable supply chains through collective purchasing power. Increased Local Collaboration: We envision a future where coffee is increasingly integrated into Minnesota's local food scene. Imagine coffee-infused craft beers, chocolate truffles featuring our single-origin roasts, or seasonal menus at local restaurants built around coffee pairings. Innovation in Sustainability: We're investing in research on more sustainable packaging options and exploring ways to upcycle coffee chaff and other by-products of the roasting process. Our goal is to minimize our environmental impact while maximizing the value we create. A More Educated Consumer Base: Through continued education efforts, we aim to cultivate a community of coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship behind every cup and understand the global impact of their purchasing decisions. Conclusion: United in Our Love for Great Coffee As the aroma of freshly roasted coffee continues to fill our roastery, we're reminded of why we do what we do. The current coffee price crisis is undoubtedly one of the most significant challenges our industry has faced in decades. However, at Ember Coffee, we believe that by staying true to our values of quality, sustainability, and community, we can not only weather this storm but emerge stronger on the other side. To our loyal customers and coffee lovers across Minnesota: your support during these turbulent times means more than you know. Every bag of Ember Coffee you purchase, every latte you enjoy in our cafe, is a vote for a more sustainable and equitable coffee future. As we navigate these uncharted waters, we remain committed to transparency, quality, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect cup. Together, we can ensure that Minnesota remains a beacon of excellence in the world of specialty coffee, no matter what challenges lie ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey, for your understanding during these difficult times, and for your unwavering love of great coffee. Here's to many more shared moments over a steaming cup of Minnesota's finest brew. Warmly,The Ember Coffee Team
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