Coffee is one of the most favorite non-alcoholic beverages in the world. The Americans are the highest coffee drinkers; they consumed 26,982 bags (of 60 LB each) in 2020-21 alone. Coffee is known not only for its robust flavor but also for its stimulating properties. However, for some individuals, regular coffee can pose digestive issues such as acid reflux, heartburn, GERD, and even bone density loss, slow metabolism, and dental problems. Thankfully, low-acid coffee offers a gentler alternative for people sensitive to acidity and also takes care of other coffee-inducing problems.
Low-acid coffee is designed to reduce the natural acids found in coffee that can sometimes irritate the stomach or esophagus. While traditional coffee has an average pH level between 4.85 and 5.1, low-acid coffee usually has a pH level of 5.5 or has at least 50% less acid than regular coffee.
The term low-acid was first used by Puroast in a 2006 Newsweek article in order to differentiate their coffee from other coffee brands. Puroast remains the only coffee brand with published research proving its low-acid claims. Recent research from NC A&T (Foods Journal, 2024) has shown that 6 out of the 7 low-acid coffee brands were as or more acidic than regular coffees. Puroast Coffee was the only brand that tested well (pH – 5.74) above the critical pH.
Low-acid coffee offers various health benefits, particularly for those with sensitive stomachs or conditions like acid reflux, GERD, and heartburn.
1. Helps with Heartburn, Acid Reflux, and GERD
One of the main reasons people switch to low-acid coffee is to alleviate symptoms associated with acid reflux, heartburn, and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). These conditions occur when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, leading to discomfort, burning sensations, and in severe cases, long-term damage to the esophageal lining.
Regular coffee can exacerbate these conditions due to its acidic nature. Low-acid coffee, on the other hand, reduces the risk of acid reflux by limiting the amount of acid introduced to the stomach. This gentler option allows individuals with GERD or acid reflux to enjoy their coffee without the fear of triggering digestive discomfort.
2. Prevents Erosion of Tooth Enamel
Regular coffee due to its acidity can be tough on teeth, not only staining them but also leading to the erosion of tooth enamel. Tooth enamel is the hard outer layer that protects the teeth from decay, and once it erodes, it cannot regenerate. Acid levels are measured using pH.A pH of 5.5 or below is when enamel will start to dissolve and demineralize. Acidic foods and beverages, including regular coffee, can speed up this process, leading to dental issues over time. Low-acid coffee, because of its reduced acidity, is less likely to erode tooth enameland stain teeth. Puroast coffees have a pH above the 5.5 level. This means that coffee drinkers can enjoy their daily cup without worrying much about damaging their teeth.
3. Less Likely to Disrupt Sleep
Caffeine is often associated with disrupted sleep patterns, but for many people, it’s the acidity in coffee that leads to poor sleep quality. Acid reflux can worsen at night, particularly when lying down, and consuming highly acidic coffee during the day may trigger night-time reflux or heartburn, which can interfere with sleep quality. Since low-acid coffee is easier on the stomach, it can reduce the symptoms of acid reflux or heartburn during the night, helping people get a better night's rest.
4. Contains Antioxidants
Antioxidants, such as chlorogenic acid, help combat inflammation, protect against cell damage caused by free radicals, and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s, heart disease, and depression. Despite its lower acidity, antioxidant content is still retained in low-acid coffee, which is one of the main health benefits of coffee. Hence, you can enjoy your cup of low-acid coffee guilt-free.
5. Boosts Weight Loss
High-acid diets slow your metabolism. Acidic foods may affect hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism, such as cortisol. Higher cortisol levels, often associated with stress and inflammation from acidic diets, can promote fat storage, especially around the abdomen. Low-acid coffee with its low acid content can boost metabolism and help your weight loss journey.
6. Supports Kidney Function
Regular coffee's acidity can be tough on the kidneys, particularly for people prone to kidney stones. Low-acid coffee reduces the stress on the kidneys by reducing acid load and maintaining a more balanced pH, making it a safer choice for those with kidney issues.
7. Protects Bone Health
High acidity levels can lead to loss of calcium in bones. Low-acid coffee may help protect bone health by limiting this effect, reducing the risk of osteoporosis over time.
Low-acid coffee is a great option for coffee lovers who want to avoid the negative side effects that accompany regular, high-acid coffee. Whether you're dealing with acid reflux, heartburn, or GERD, or just want to protect your teeth, sleep better, boost weight loss, and support muscle mass, low-acid coffee can make a positive difference in your daily routine.
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