Acidity is often a problem for coffee lovers. It may trigger acid reflux or heartburn, leaving many coffee drinkers in a difficult situation. If you're one of the millions of Americans who rely on coffee for energy or comfort, drinking low-acid coffee could be a solution.
Many foods and beverages, including coffee, are known to trigger heartburn in people. After bariatric surgery, heartburn can be very uncomfortable and even dangerous. To prevent this, bariatric surgeons and nutritionists advise against drinking coffee. However, for many people, life without coffee is bleak.
So, what exactly is acidity in coffee? From the taste aspect, acidity could be used to describe a bright or citrusy flavor. The scientific definition of acidity is simply a measure of how acidic something is. The pH scale is used to define acidity. A pH of less than 7 is acidic, and a pH greater than 7 is basic. A pH of 7 is neutral. Unfortunately, coffee isn't acidic or neutral. Most coffees have a pH of about 5 or lower, making them highly acidic.
There are a few types of acid in coffee, but chlorogenic acids are the most responsible for lowering the pH of coffee to an acidic point. Caffeine also plays a role in lowering pH levels, and it can cause heartburn in many people.
Reducing the acidity in regular coffee is challenging. Diluting coffee with water is possible, but it'll affect the flavor and may not be desirable for coffee lovers. Cold brew coffee is another alternative, but it doesn't significantly reduce acidity, and it may have lower antioxidants than hot coffee.
Alex's Low-Acid Organic Coffee offers a solution. This coffee is made from organic beans that are roasted to a French roast, creating a perfect taste profile. Additionally, the beans go through heat convection instead of metal drums, which lowers their chlorogenic acid content. Alex's Low-Acid Decaf Coffee is even lower in acid, providing another option for those who need it.
In conclusion, heartburn and bariatric surgery patients can continue to enjoy their coffee with low-acid options. Alex's Low-Acid Organic Coffee and Decaf Coffee can give you the great taste of coffee without the acidic side effects. Talk to your doctor or surgeon about incorporating low-acid coffee into your diet to avoid symptoms of heartburn while still enjoying your favorite beverage.