If you’re one of the millions who can’t stomach coffee without experiencing heartburn, stomach upsets, or acid indigestion, you might assume you’re out of luck when it comes to enjoying this antioxidant-rich, life expectancy-lengthening beverage. But, research suggests that dark-roasted coffee like espresso and French roast might be easier on your tummy.
Breaking down the coffee irritation mystery
Researchers at the University of Vienna in Austria and the Technische Universität München in Germany discovered the potential solution for those who suffer from stomach side effects after enjoying coffee. Though the research isn’t new, its findings remain relevant for anyone who feels excluded from the health benefits of coffee due to an irritable stomach.
To understand the irritants in coffee, the researchers exposed human stomach cell cultures to different coffee preparations, including regular, dark-roast, mild, decaffeinated, and stomach-friendly. By doing this, they identified several ingredients that seemed to trigger chemical changes associated with increased acid production. The key components causing stomach irritation were caffeine, catechols, and other substances.
The stomach-friendly coffee ingredient
Surprisingly, the researchers discovered that one of the coffee components, N-methylpyridium (NMP), appeared to block the ability of stomach cells to produce hydrochloric acid. This could provide a way to reduce, or even avoid, stomach irritation from coffee. NMP is only generated upon roasting and isn’t found in raw coffee beans. This means that darker-roasted coffees contain higher amounts of this stomach-friendly coffee ingredient.
In fact, dark-roasted coffee can potentially contain up to twice as much NMP as light-roasted varieties. However, it’s important to note that the levels of NMP can still vary widely, depending on the coffee bean variety and the roasting method.
Tips for enjoying coffee without stomach irritation
So, how can you enjoy coffee without the nasty side effects? Here are some tips for relishing a cup of joe without upsetting your stomach:
- Opt for darker-roasted coffee: As mentioned above, dark-roasted coffee like espresso or French roast contains higher amounts of the stomach-friendly NMP.
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Experiment with the roasting method: Since NMP levels may differ depending on the roasting process, it might be worth trying different brewing methods to see which ones suit your digestive system better.
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Stick to black coffee: Although adding milk or cream to your coffee can make it taste smoother, these dairy products could exacerbate your stomach issues. Try drinking your coffee black or using a non-dairy milk alternative if you still want something creamy.
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Avoid acidic coffee: Some coffee varieties are more acidic than others, and acidic coffee can irritate your stomach. Look for brands that have labeled their coffee as low acid, or opt for beans grown at lower elevations, as they tend to be less acidic.
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Eat something with your coffee: Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can increase the chances of heartburn and other stomach-related issues. Pair your coffee with a morning snack to protect your stomach lining.
By following these suggestions, you can finally enjoy the delicious, positive health effects of coffee without irritation. Remember, when it comes to coffee, it should be “black as hell, strong as death, and as sweet as love,” as a Turkish proverb aptly puts it.
