Many of us start our day after sipping a cup of hot coffee or tea. And some of us also love to have a mug of caffeine drinks in the evening. But, these drinks are not good for those who are dealing with GERD. Symptoms like heartburn get elevated in patients suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease after consuming caffeine drinks.
There are various other effects of these beverages, and hence, people look for remedies that provide instant relief from acidity. In this write-up, we will discuss whether people can consume such drinks in moderation with GERD or not.
Effects of caffeine on gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Caffeine drinks like tea and coffee can be responsible for increasing heartburn in many people. These beverages may trigger the symptoms of GERD because it relaxes the LES (lower esophageal sphincter). So, doctors and health organizations also recommend people with GERD to avoid or limit consumption of caffeinated drinks. From the scientific perspective, there is no clear evidence that people suffering from GERD should limit or avoid drinking tea and coffee.
Although the effects of these drinks on GERD are unclear, if one finds that caffeine increases the symptoms then, going for any of the below-noted alternatives is the best option.
- Decaffeinated coffee
- Fruit or herbal tea
- Chicory coffee
Coffee and GERD
One might find that coffee aggravates their GERD symptoms and thinks that limiting its intake can provide relief. But, it is also important to know that the amount of caffeine in the coffee beans differs based on their types. The darker roasted coffee contains less caffeine per bean and light roasted or breakfast coffee contains more caffeine. If the GERD symptoms get increased after consuming coffee, then one should go for the dark roasted variant.
Tea and GERD
The relationship between GERD and tea is always a matter of debate. It is because, along with caffeine, there are a variety of other components that tea contains. It is said that the more processed tea product contains more caffeine. The black tea leaves have higher caffeine than green tea leaves. Also, the preparation of tea affects the final product. The longer the tea is steeped, the higher caffeine content it will have.
So, it is difficult to figure out whether the GERD is increased from the caffeine or something else present in the tea product.
Final note
People dealing with GERD and acid reflux should always read the labels of tea or coffee before buying it. This will give them the idea of caffeine in the product. In case they get mild acid reflux symptoms even after consuming less caffeinated tea or coffee, they might take ayurvedic medicines like Gas-O-Fast jeera to get instant relief from gas and acidity. In case the symptoms are severe then it is always recommended to get in touch with the doctor.
