What is the Best Coffee for Acid Reflux and GERD?
Updated - Team Colipse
The best coffee for acid reflux is low-acid coffee that is dark roasted, decaffeinated, and cold brewed. Acid reflux is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and cause irritation. Drinking coffee can trigger acid reflux symptoms such as heartburn, stomach pain, or indigestion, but relationship between coffee and acid reflux remains unclear due to contradictory scientific findings.
Coffee might trigger acid reflux symptoms in people with known Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), but it is not considered a direct cause of GERD. Most people with acid reflux can drink coffee in moderation without worsening symptoms. To find the best coffee for acid reflux, look for options that are lower in acidity and less likely to trigger heartburn. Avoid coffee on an empty stomach and let it cool before drinking. Besides low acid coffee, you can relieve acid reflux by switching to chicory root, mushroom coffee blends, herbal teas, or matcha.
What is Acid Reflux?
Acid reflux refers to the backward flow of stomach acid into the esophagus. Acid reflux causes heartburn, regurgitation, and chest pain. Acid reflux is a common symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). The Montreal Consensus defines GERD as a chronic medical condition. GERD is diagnosed when acid reflux occurs frequently.
Acid reflux happens due to dysfunction of the esophagogastric junction, especially if the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is weak. The temporary relaxation of the valve allows acidic fluid to flow backward into the food pipe. The upward flow of acidic fluid produces GERD symptoms. These symptoms get worse with alcohol, spicy foods, and chocolate.
Does Drinking Coffee Cause Acid Reflux?
Yes, drinking coffee can trigger acid reflux symptoms such as heartburn or indigestion in some people. Coffee affects acid reflux by relaxing the lower esophageal sphincter, increasing stomach acid production, and irritating the esophageal lining. A 2020 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology by Raaj S. Mehta examined healthy individuals without baseline GERD. The authors found that women drinking two cups of coffee per day or more had a 34% higher risk of weekly acid reflux symptoms.
However, the relationship between coffee and acid reflux remains unclear due to contradictory scientific findings. For example, a 2022 study by Astrid Nehlig titled "Effects of Coffee on the Gastro-Intestinal Tract" reports that coffee increases gastric acid secretion by 10–40%, but results are inconsistent. The 2022 study identifies fifteen studies that show no association between coffee intake and acid reflux risk. Two studies report that coffee intake provides a protective effect against acid reflux. Eleven studies report that coffee intake increases the risk of acid reflux.
No clinical trials or cohort studies prove that coffee improves acid reflux symptoms or reduces GERD as a disease.
Does Caffeine Cause Acid Reflux?
Yes, caffeine can trigger acid reflux by stimulating gastric acid secretion through bitter taste receptors in the stomach and mouth, according to Kathrin Ingrid Liszt from the Department of Nutritional and Physiological Chemistry at University of Vienna. Caffeine activates TAS2R receptors, especially TAS2R43, increasing acid production. These effects make it easier for acid to reflux from the stomach into the esophagus, especially in sensitive individuals.
People typically notice acid reflux symptoms within 10 to 30 minutes after eating or drinking triggers like caffeine. Heartburn symptoms can appear as soon as 10 minutes after drinking coffee, according to Supatra Lohsiriwat from the Department of Physiology at Siriraj Hospital. This delay occurs because reflux begins after lower esophageal sphincter pressure drops, allowing stomach acid to rise. Substances like caffeine lower LES pressure and increase reflux risk and symptom onset.
Is Coffee Bad for People with Acid Reflux?
Yes, coffee might trigger acid reflux symptoms in people with known GERD, but it is not considered a direct cause of GERD. Individual sensitivity strongly influences how coffee affects acid reflux. A 2024 clinical study by Lorella Franzoni from University of Parma showed that drinking more than four cups of coffee per day worsens reflux symptoms in existing GERD and dyspeptic patients.
A 2022 study published in The Indonesian Journal of Gastroenterology Hepatology and Digestive Endoscopy found a significant correlation between coffee consumption and acid reflux in adults aged 18–65 living in Jakarta. The study reported that 84.6% of GERD sufferers consumed coffee at moderate to high levels. The study showed that higher coffee intake is linked to acid reflux symptoms.
A 2022 study by Yu Zhang from Zhejiang Hospital showed that coffee may increase, irritate, or worsen acid reflux in GERD patients, especially when consumed on an empty stomach. Some studies found regular coffee increases esophageal acid exposure, while decaffeinated coffee reduces it. Other controlled studies and meta-analyses show no clear causal link, suggesting coffee is not always “bad” for people with reflux. The evidence indicates individual responses vary based on coffee type, timing, and personal sensitivity.
Can You Drink Coffee with GERD?
Yes, most people with GERD can drink coffee in moderation without worsening symptoms, according to a 2022 study published in Nutrients by Astrid Nehlig. People with acid reflux can drink 1–2 cups of coffee daily if caffeine and acidity are well-tolerated. The best time to drink coffee with acid reflux is after eating, never on an empty stomach. Pair coffee with food like oatmeal or whole grains to buffer acid.
People with acid reflux should avoid regular coffee and instead choose low-acid coffee like dark roast or cold brew, drink moderately, and switch to decaf if caffeine causes symptoms. These options reduce gastric acid stimulation and may lessen symptoms. Avoid light roasts, unfiltered coffee (like French press or espresso), and coffee with added sugar or syrups if you have acid reflux. These increase acidity and relax the lower esophageal sphincter.
What are the Best Coffees for Acid Reflux?
The best coffees for acid reflux are coffee options that are lower in acidity and less likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms. These include low-acid beans, cold brew methods, dark roasts, mushroom coffee, and decaf. Choosing these options helps reduce heartburn and discomfort for individuals with sensitive digestion. Below are listed four gerd friendly coffee choices.
- Low-acid Coffee Blends
- Dark Roast Coffee
- Cold Brew Coffee
- Mushroom Coffee
- Decaffeinated Coffee
1. Low-acid Coffee Blends
Low-acid coffee blends refer to coffee made from beans naturally lower in acid or processed to reduce acidity. These blends often use beans from Brazil, Sumatra, or India and are roasted darker to neutralize acids. A 2019 study by Sabur Badmos published in Food Research International showed that low altitude coffees from regions like Brazil, Indonesia, and Uganda are better for acid reflux due to their lower chlorogenic acid (CGA) content.
Low-acid coffee is generally better for acid reflux because it reduces irritation to the stomach lining and esophagus. A 2021 study published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition found that coffee acidity depends on species, roast, and processing, and that low-acid coffee reduces mucosal irritation in sensitive people. We recommend the low acid Colipse Italian Espresso made from specialty-grade Robusta and Arabica beans.
2. Dark Roast Coffee
Dark roast coffee for acid reflux refers to coffee beans roasted longer at higher temperatures. Dark roast coffee contains fewer compounds that stimulate gastric acid, according to a 2014 study published in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research by Malte Rubach. The study included nine healthy volunteers as participants. The research showed dark roast coffee blend stimulates less gastric acid secretion than a medium roast, despite similar caffeine levels.
Dark roast coffee is better for acid reflux because it contains higher levels of N-methylpyridinium, according to a 2022 study published in Nutrients by Astrid Nehlig. This compound forms during the roasting process from trigonelline, a naturally occurring compound in green coffee beans. Gastric acid secretion decreases when it is exposed to N-methylpyridinium in coffee. This chemical shift during roasting makes dark roast less irritating to the stomach lining and esophagus. Our top pick for GERD friendly dark roast coffee is Colipse Italian Espresso.
3. Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee for acid reflux refers to using cold immersion as a gentler brewing alternative to regular coffee. Cold brew is less acidic due to its slow steeping process in cold water, which reduces compounds that trigger acid reflux.
A 2018 study by Niny Z. Rao titled "Acidity and Antioxidant Activity of Cold Brew Coffee" measured chemical differences between cold-brew and hot-brew coffees made from the same beans. The study compared acidity and antioxidant levels in both brews. The researchers found cold brew had significantly lower total titratable acidity than hot brew.
People with acid reflux often tolerate cold brew better than hot brewed coffee. Jillian Michaels, a fitness expert and host of the Keeping It Real podcast, stated that cold brewed coffee has less acid and tannins, which helps reduce stomach upset, protects tooth enamel, and avoids raising LDL cholesterol. This supports its use for people with acid reflux or GERD. Our go-to cold brew coffee for anyone with acid reflux is Colipse Cold Brew Blend.
4. Mushroom Coffee
Mushroom coffee is good for those with sensitive stomach because it is lower in acidity. Mushroom coffee is less likely to stimulate stomach acid. Mushroom coffee contains anti-inflammatory compounds like beta-glucans and prebiotics. A 2024 study published in Pharmaceuticals by Katarzyna Kała from the Department of Medicinal Plant and Mushroom Biotechnology at Jagiellonian University Medical College shows that adding Cordyceps militaris or Hericium erinaceus reduces chlorogenic acid levels in mushroom-coffee blends. However, no peer-reviewed human studies exist testing mushroom coffee’s effect on acid reflux, GERD, or heartburn under controlled conditions.
5. Decaffeinated Coffee
Decaffeinated coffee is one of the best coffees for acid reflux, as it significantly reduces esophageal acidity compared to regular coffee. A 2013 study titled "Effect of Coffee on Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease" by Yu Zhang show that regular coffee increases reflux symptoms, while decaf coffee does not lower LES pressure or increase acid exposure, making it a safer option for GERD patients.
People with acid reflux can drink decaf coffee safely. Clinical research shows decaf coffee causes significantly less reflux than regular coffee. A 1997 randomized trial titled "The effect of decaffeination of coffee on gastro-oesophageal reflux in patients with reflux disease" examined the effect of decaffeinated coffee on gastro-oesophageal reflux. Seventeen reflux patients underwent two 3-hour esophageal pH measurements. The study found that decaf coffee reduced the time esophageal pH stayed below 4. Decaffeinated coffee reduced reflux time from 17.9% to 3.1% in reflux patients. Colipse Decaf Espresso stands out as the top dark roast decaf coffee for those with acid reflux.
Where to Buy Low Acid Coffee for Acid Reflux?
Colipse Coffee is the best place to buy low acid coffee for acid reflux. At Colipse Coffee, we source low acid beans from high-altitude farms and roast them longer to reduce acidity. We offer whole bean and pre-ground coffee, including Swiss Water® decaf, from $20.99 per 12 oz to help with reflux without higher costs. Every order ships free via USPS Priority anywhere in the U.S., arriving within 3-5 days while beans are still off-gassing for optimal freshness.
What are the Best Low Acid Coffee Brands for Acid Reflux?
The following list shows top seven low acid coffee brands for acid reflux.
- Colipse Italian Espresso Blend
- Folgers Simply Smooth Ground Coffee
- Purity Coffee EASE Dark Roast Low Acid Organic Coffee
- Puroast Dark French Roast
- Volcanica Low Acid Coffee
- HealthWise Low-Acid K-Cup Coffee
- Alex's Low Acid French Roast Coffee
How to Drink Coffee without Getting Acid Reflux?
To drink coffee without getting acid reflux, follow the steps below.
- Let your coffee cool slightly before sipping to avoid irritating the esophagus.
- Drink smaller amounts or dilute with water to lessen reflux triggers.
- Have something light in your stomach, like toast, before your coffee.
- Stay hydrated by drinking water before and after coffee.
- Avoid drinking coffee on an empty stomach to prevent sphincter relaxation.
- Brew single cups fresh rather than letting coffee sit and become more acidic.
- Consider low-acid specialty blends designed for sensitive stomachs.
- Time coffee intake away from meals if it worsens symptoms for you.
- Experiment with aloe vera concentrate as a daily supplement for reflux relief.
- Use antacids like calcium carbonate sparingly if needed post-coffee.
- Consult a doctor for proton pump inhibitors if reflux persists despite changes.
What are the Best Coffee Alternatives for Acid Reflux?
The best coffee alternatives for acid reflux are chicory root, mushroom blends, and herbal teas like ginger, licorice, and dandelion. Matcha and Hojicha offer alternatives to coffee for acid reflux with lower acidity and less irritation. Aloe vera juice and golden milk also soothe the stomach and reduce acid reflux symptoms.
Is Matcha Better than Coffee for Acid Reflux?
Yes, matcha is better than coffee for acid reflux because it is less acidic, contains lower caffeine, and has L-theanine, which calms the digestive system. Coffee increases stomach acid and can irritate the esophagus, while matcha’s near-neutral pH and anti-inflammatory catechins make it gentler on sensitive stomachs.
Is Iced Coffee Better for Acid Reflux?
Yes, iced coffee is slightly better for acid reflux than hot coffee due to its lower acidity and cooler temperature. The pH of cold brew coffee is typically higher, which makes it less acidic and gentler on the stomach. Cold brewing methods reduce acid levels, but both forms can still trigger reflux symptoms depending on individual tolerance.
What is the Best Coffee Creamer for Acid Reflux?
The best coffee creamers for acid reflux are low-fat, non-dairy options such as almond, oat, or coconut milk creamers. These reduce the risk of triggering reflux by avoiding dairy and high fat. Unsweetened versions with minimal ingredients are ideal to prevent added sugars and gut irritation.