If you're a regular coffee drinker who also experiences chest discomfort after a few cups, it may not be due to the energy boost provided by caffeine.
Although there is some debate among researchers as to whether or not coffee is a trigger, growing evidence suggests that it is for some.
Few studies look specifically at coffee and heartburn. Most look at how coffee affects GERD, which is another long-term condition.
Research suggests coffee affects esophageal function in digestion. Nature found in 2022 that coffee increases gastric secretions.
Coffee is acidic and may make it more difficult for the body to neutralize acid on its own. Additionally, people frequently consume coffee in the morning on an empty stomach.
Unfortunately, if you get heartburn from coffee, it's likely that you'll get it from other caffeinated beverages as well.
For the simple reason that the caffeine in the coffee calms the esophageal muscle. Therefore, replacing coffee with soda or caffeinated tea is not an effective solution.
In place of coffee, tea, and soft drinks, water is the healthiest choice. Clinical trials confirmed that this method successfully reduced acid reflux symptoms.