Coffee Drinking With Acid Reflux?

Dealing with Acid Reflux

When people deal with the burning sensation in their stomach and esophagus known as "heartburn", they often simply pop a few antacids and call it good. However, this solution is temporary and it does not confront the root problem. Often, Acid reflux is a condition that occurs when people eat too much too quickly at mealtime. When this happens, there is a back flow the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) starts to relax at inappropriate times, allowing for strong stomach juices to build up and rise into the esophagus. Acid reflux is a chronic condition, and if left untreated, can lead to more serious medical complications.

Coffee - Harmful or Helpful?

It is a common breakfast ritual to begin the day with a fresh cup of coffee. Most people wouldn't think of leaving the house without at least a cup, or a stop along the way at one of the many java places on route to work. Coffee is a part of life for many, and it would be impossible to think that it could actually ruin the mealtime experience. Depending on which studies are researched, coffee can either be acceptable or harmful to those dealing with acid reflux. While, the case "for" is based on more recent discovery, several medical websites still list coffee as the "must avoid" drink of choice. But what are the advantages and disadvantages of drinking coffee for someone who is dealing with acid reflux?

The Case For

According to a recent study published in the May 2006 edition of the Archives of Internal Medicine, all of the so-called "myths " surrounding coffee's potentially disruptive effects on acid reflux were not accurate. Additionally, a gastroenterologist named Dr. Lauren Gerson examined nearly 2,000 studies from 1974-2004 and found that those who stopped consuming caffeine did not find relief from their symptoms. In fact, it was those who lost weight that had the true results. While this conclusion is still relatively new, there are more and more increasing cases to support this statement.

The Case Against

There are several reports advocating that the consumption of coffee increases acid secretion in the stomach, leading to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD ). Coffee is highly acidic and can stimulate the hyper secretion of gastric acids. Decaffeinated coffee has been noted to have a higher degree of acidity that regular coffee or caffeine alone, as it raises serum gastrin levels. Among the symptoms of coffee's effects are an irritation and inflammation of the lower esophagus due to the high amounts of acidity.

Each Case Varies

One of the best ways to combat acid reflux is to customize a special diet based around the needs of the "heartburn" symptoms. While more recent studies have concluded that the consumption of coffee is ineffective in causing acid reflux, it is best to consult with a physician before making a decision, as no two cases of acid reflux are alike, and the effects on an individual can vary. In order to maintain a diet that is both health conscious and enjoyable, it is important to recognize one's own particular needs and find a balance that will be able to accommodate them all.

Sources:

http://www.healthcastle.com/acid_reflux.shtml

http://www.healthcentral.com/acid-reflux/introduction-000085_9-145.html

http://www.endowsec.com/pated/edtgs03.htm

http://www.teeccino.com/gitract.aspx

http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,408221,00.html?sPage=fnc/health/acidreflux

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