The benefits of coffee have been debated for many years. In the past, coffee was considered “bad” for health. It has been known to contribute to anxiety and could be harmful to pregnancies. Unfiltered coffee has even been associated with higher mortality rates.
On the other hand, coffee is also a natural energy booster and a significant source of antioxidants. One cup of coffee may contain between 200-550 mg of antioxidants, which neutralize the free radicals that can damage cells and cause cancer.
Recent research reveals that coffee has additional potential health benefits. Moderate consumption may help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of chronic illness. But good or bad, coffee can also cause heartburn or an upset stomach due to its high acidity.
If you enjoy coffee but find it wreaks havoc on your stomach, you may consider low-acidity coffee. Read on to learn more about its benefits.
Is Coffee Acidic?
Scientists use a pH scale to determine a product’s acidity. The scale ranges from 0 to 14. Anything that rates from 0 to 7 is considered acidic.
Coffee’s pH value ranges from 4.85 to 5.10. It contains nine major acids that contribute to its acidity. Acidity varies depending on roasting and brewing methods, and the ground size.
The acidity in coffee is shown to aggravate certain health conditions including acid reflux, gastric ulcers, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Coffee has not been shown to cause these conditions but may worsen symptoms. If you have been diagnosed with these conditions, you should avoid coffee.
How to Avoid Acidic Coffee
If you love coffee but find it upsets your stomach, there are ways to reduce the acidity. For example, you may:
- Choose Dark Roast Coffee Beans: Dark roasts are roasted longer and at hotter temperatures helping reduce acidity.
- Drink Cold Brews Instead of Hot Brews: Cold-brewed coffee is generally less acidic and can be easier to drink for people with sensitive stomachs.
- Increase Brew Time: Coffee brewed longer may have lower acidity. Try using a French press to increase brew time.
- Choose a Coarser Grind: Well-ground coffee exposes a greater surface area and causes increased acidity. A coarser grind will have a lower acid content.
Choose Low Acidity Coffee
You may also avoid acidic coffee by choosing a low-acidity blend. Tyler’s Coffee specializes in low-acidity coffee made for people with digestive issues. Their products feature 100% organic Arabica beans roasted through a computerized technique that ensures low acidity.
Varieties include:
- Tyler’s Coffee Organic Regular Whole Beach Coffee: This flavorful coffee is ideal for people who like to prepare their brew at home.
- Tyler’s Coffee Organic Regular Ground Coffee: Regular ground is a convenient coffee lovers’ choice.
- Tyler’s Coffee Organic Decaf Coffee Single Serve: Decaf is perfect for those who like to avoid caffeine. The single-serve packaging offers optimal convenience.
Coffee may upset your stomach, but low-acidity choices are available. They provide the benefits of coffee without the discomfort. Will you be sipping them throughout your busy day?
FAQs
Is low-acid coffee better for you?
There are several benefits of low acid coffee. Low-acid coffee is good for people with digestive issues. It is also less likely to stain your teeth than acidic coffee.
What tastes like coffee but isn’t acidic?
Low-acidity coffee is a good acidic coffee alternative. Other low-acid drinks that may substitute coffee include matcha tea, kombucha, and chicory root coffee.
What to drink instead of coffee for bowel movement?
Many people drink coffee to relieve constipation. However, if you want to avoid coffee, tea, water, and probiotic drinks can promote a bowel movement. Avoid alcohol and milk if you are constipated.