What is Low Acid Coffee: Benefits and Types

Do you love coffee but find that it upsets your stomach? Maybe you suffer from acid reflux, GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease), or other digestive issues that make drinking coffee a painful experience. 

If so, you’re not alone. Millions of people worldwide experience discomfort after drinking coffee due to its high acidity levels.

In this comprehensive guide, I will explore everything you need to know about low acid coffee, including the top 10 brands of best low acid coffee, the benefits of low acid coffee, and regular coffee vs. low acid coffee.

Let’s start from scratches.

What is Low Acid Coffee?

Low acid coffee is coffee that has been specially processed or brewed to reduce its acidity levels. The acidity in coffee comes from natural compounds called chlorogenic acids, which are present in all coffee beans. However, some coffee beans have higher levels of chlorogenic acids than others, which can make them more acidic.

How to manufacture low acid coffee?

To make low acid coffee, coffee manufacturers use beans that are naturally low in acidity or use special processing methods to remove the acidic compounds.

One common method is to steam or roast the beans at lower temperatures, which can reduce the amount of chlorogenic acids in the beans. Another method is to add alkaline substances like potassium hydroxide to the beans, which neutralize the acidity.

How to measure the acidity level in coffee?

Well, the acidity level in coffee is measured by its pH level, and the maximum pH of 7 is called neutral. Regular coffee typically has a pH level between 4 and 5, while low acid coffee has a pH level between 6 and 7. This difference in pH level makes low acid coffee less likely to cause digestive issues, such as heartburn and acid reflux.

So, Low acid coffee is a great option if you suffer from digestive issues or prefer a smoother and less bitter taste. Whether you choose coffee made using the Swiss water process or the natural process, or you prefer a specific brand, there are plenty of options available for you to choose from. 

So why not try low-acid coffee and see if it’s right for you?

Is Regular Coffee Acidic?

Well, Regular coffee doesn’t have the sort of acid like a Bond villain might fall into. But regular coffee is almost always on the acidic side of the pH scale. The depth of the roast can determine coffee acidity, as can the brewing method used.

Regular coffee typically has a pH level of around 5.0. However, this does not equal Beer or Soda, which have more acidity. But it can contribute to stomach discomfort if you take it in large quantities, as most people drink more than one cup daily. 

Regular vs Low Acid Coffee

There always remains confusion in the minds of coffee fans about espresso vs coffee and regular coffee vs low acid coffee. Let’s have a look at the comparison table to make a clear idea about regular vs low acid coffee.

Why Drink Low Acid Coffee?

There are several reasons why you might want to drink low-acid coffee. The most common reasons are to reduce stomach irritation and improve coffee’s taste. But that’s not all – low-acid coffee is also healthier for you.

Let me explore some major benefits of Low Acid Coffee:

Easier on Your Digestive System

Non-acidic coffee is gentle on your stomach and easier on your digestive system than traditional coffee. The lower acidity levels make it less likely to cause heartburn or acid reflux. So, if your coffee addict and can’t start without drinking a cup of it, you can go for Acid-free coffee which is Stomach-friendly coffee.

Reduces Acid Reflux

Acid reflux is a common problem that can be caused by drinking coffee. Low acid coffee may help reduce your symptoms and make it easier for you to enjoy your favorite beverage.

Better for Your Teeth

The acidity in traditional coffee can erode your tooth enamel over time, which can lead to tooth sensitivity and other dental problems. Mild coffee is less likely to damage your teeth and may even help prevent tooth decay.

Lower Risk of Stomach Ulcers

Drinking Acid-reduced coffee may help reduce your risk of developing stomach ulcers. Stomach ulcers are caused by a bacterial infection or prolonged use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but acidic foods and beverages can exacerbate the problem.

So, use this Acid-neutral coffee to cure your stomach ulcers.

That’s all for the health benefits of low-acid coffee, but what if you don’t like the strong taste of regular coffee? 

Again there comes Reduced bitterness coffee, low acid coffee. It is often smoother and less bitter than regular coffee prepared with Low-acidity beans.

So, if you’ve ever found regular coffee to be too strong or bitter, you may enjoy the milder taste of low-acid coffee.

A  Few Potential Downsides of Regular Acidic Coffee

While regular coffee is a popular and beloved beverage for many, it does have some downsides, particularly when it comes to its acidity.

The benefits that you find in low-acid coffee can’t be enjoyed in regular acidic coffee.

Acid reflux

The high acid content in regular coffee can irritate the esophagus and cause acid reflux, which can be uncomfortable and painful. So, don’t try acidic coffee if you have acid reflux.

Stomach discomfort

Regular coffee can cause stomach discomfort and digestive issues, particularly if you have a sensitive stomach. While low acid coffee is also called Coffee for heartburn, which contains less acidity.

Tooth enamel erosion

The acidity in regular coffee can also wear down tooth enamel over time. Enamel can lead to increased tooth sensitivity and a higher risk of cavities. Moreover, your teeth can lose their brightness.

A Journal of Oral Rehabilitation investigated the erosive potential of various flavored sparkling water drinks, which are often consumed as an alternative to carbonated soft drinks. The study found that the drinks had a low pH and high titratable acidity, which can lead to dental erosion and enamel loss over time.

Dehydration

Regular coffee is a diuretic, which means it can cause increased urination and lead to dehydration if not balanced with enough water intake. So, if you have acidic coffee then make sure you’re taking a good amount of water daily to balance the harshness of acidic coffee.

Bitter taste

Although it’s not a potential drawback of acidic coffee, coffee drinkers are fans of a robust shot of coffee to boost energy. But again those who love smooth coffee may find regular coffee to be too bitter, which can make it difficult to enjoy. 

And finally, these downsides may not affect everyone who drinks regular coffee, they are important to keep in mind. Switching to low-acid coffee can be a great solution for those who want to continue enjoying their coffee without these potential negative effects.

How is Low Acid Coffee Made?

There are several ways to make low-acid coffee. One of the most popular methods is to use coffee beans that are naturally low in acidity.

Use Low-acidity beans

The selection of beans determines the taste and the pH of acidity. So, try to acid-reduced beans if you want mild coffee. Arabica beans, for example, are generally less acidic than Robusta beans, making them a popular choice for low-acid coffee. Other varieties of low-acid coffee beans include Brazilian Santos, Sumatran Mandheling, and Colombian Supremo.

Natural Process

The natural process involves growing coffee beans that naturally have lower acidity levels. These beans are then roasted using a special process that preserves their low acidity levels. The result is a coffee that is naturally low in acidity without the need for any additional processing.

Cold Brewing

Another method is to use a cold brewing process. Cold brewing involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for several hours, which produces a less acidic coffee concentrate. The concentrate can then be mixed with hot water or milk to create a low-acid coffee beverage.

 Swiss water process

The Swiss water process involves soaking the coffee beans in hot water, which extracts the beans’ caffeine and acidity. The water is then passed through activated carbon filters to remove the caffeine. This whole process leaves behind a coffee extract that is 99.9% caffeine-free and low in acidity. The beans are then discarded.

What are the Different Types of Low Acid Coffee?

There are several types of low-acid coffee that you can safely use to enjoy your coffee without having acidity. 

Decaf

Decaf coffee is coffee that has had most of its caffeine removed. Because caffeine is acidic, decaf coffee is naturally lower in acid than regular coffee. Decaf is also called traditional coffee.

Cold Brew

Cold brew is a somewhat modern way of removing acidity from coffee. This type of coffee is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time. Because the coffee is not exposed to high temperatures, it has a lower acidity level than regular coffee.

Instant

Instant coffee is made by dehydrating brewed coffee. The dehydration removes some of the acids from the coffee, making it lower in acid than regular coffee.

In short, all the above discussed are the type of low-acid coffee. So you can easily choose the best low-acid coffee for you.

Tips for Brewing Low-Acid Coffee at Home

So, if you’re looking to switch to low-acid coffee, you’ll be happy to know that it’s easy to brew at home using various methods. Here are some tips on how to make low-acid coffee at home:

Choose the Right Beans

Look for coffee beans labeled as low acid or acid-reduced. These beans are typically roasted for a longer period of time and at lower temperatures. That’s why they prepare smoother and less acidic coffee.

Use a French Press

A French press is a great brewing method for low-acid coffee. It allows the coffee to steep for a longer time in a less acidic cup.

Use a Coarse Grind

When grinding your low-acid coffee beans, use a coarse grind. This can help reduce the acidity level of the coffee by minimizing the surface area of the beans that comes into contact with the water.

Use a Filter

If you’re using a drip coffee maker, use a paper filter to remove some of the acidity from the coffee.

Watch the Temperature

When brewing low-acid coffee, be sure to monitor the temperature of the water. Water that is too hot can result in a more acidic cup of coffee.

Experiment with Different Brewing Methods

Don’t be afraid to try different brewing methods, such as a pour-over or cold brew. These methods can also result in delicious, low-acid coffee.

By following these tips, you can brew a delicious cup of low-acid coffee that is easy on the stomach and tastes. But if you’re an espresso lover, must read how to pull a perfect espresso shot.

Top 10 Best Low Acid Coffee Brands

So, if you want to switch to low-acid coffee, here are the best low-acid coffee brands. You can choose the one which suits you the best.

Puroast Coffee

The low acid content of Puroast Coffee is achieved through a unique roasting process that uses lower temperatures and longer times than traditional roasting methods. In fact, Puroast Coffee claims that its coffee is up to 70% less acidic than other brands. Puroast Coffee is a favorite among low-acid coffee lovers.

Java Planet

Java Planet uses a natural, water-based decaffeination process to create a low-acid coffee that is both organic and fair trade.

Tieman’s Fusion Coffee

Tieman’s Fusion Coffee combines low-acid coffee beans with other natural ingredients such as matcha and rooibos tea to create unique and flavorful blends.

HealthWise Coffee

HealthWise Coffee is a low-acid coffee brand that is specifically marketed toward those with acid reflux and other digestive issues.

Trücup Coffee

Trücup Coffee uses a patented process that removes the bitter compounds in coffee, resulting in a smooth, low-acid coffee that is easy on the stomach.

Lucy Jo’s Coffee Roastery

Lucy Jo’s Coffee Roastery offers a variety of low-acid coffee blends, including decaf and flavored options.

Mommee Coffee

Mommee Coffee is a low-acid coffee brand that is designed for pregnant and nursing mothers, but can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a gentler coffee option.

Simpatico Coffee

Simpatico Coffee uses a unique, slow-roasting process to reduce acidity levels and create a smooth, low-acid coffee.

Lifeboost Coffee

Lifeboost Coffee is a fair trade, organic low acid coffee that is handpicked and shade-grown in Nicaragua.

Volcanica Coffee Company

Volcanica Coffee Company offers a variety of low-acid coffee blends, including gourmet options such as Kona and Jamaican Blue Mountain.

Final Thoughts

Finally, If you’re a coffee lover but afraid of acidity, don’t worry – there are options out there for you! Low acid coffee is a great alternative if you want to enjoy the rich, delicious taste of coffee without the discomfort that high acidity can cause.

And what next? You might be surprised at how much you love the smooth, flavorful taste – and your stomach will thank you!