Most adults start their day by pouring themselves – or ordering – a cup of coffee. This morning staple has several known benefits including its ability to provide the body with antioxidants.
If you have a sensitive stomach, however, you may have a complicated relationship with the drink.
Acidity
While coffee’s nutritional value can’t be overstated, for some people, it can have an aggravating effect, causing discomfort. This may be due to coffee beans’ natural acid content that tends to increase in concentration following roasting and brewing. Over time, too much acid can pose a dilemma for you and your gut.
If you find coffee has a less than desirable effect on your stomach, try one of these gut-friendly coffee modifications in – or with – tomorrow morning’s cup.
Low-Acid Coffee
Some coffee brands create low-acid versions of their beans. This means they have taken special care to process their coffee beans with methods that work to reduce acidity such as steaming or the use of solvents. Typically, beans grown in lower altitudes are naturally lower in acid but read the labels to find beans specially marked “low-acid” to be sure.
Dairy Alternatives
For those with a lactose sensitivity, it may be the creamer you’re using that is causing discomfort after your morning cup of coffee. If you suspect this applies to you, you’re in luck. There are many alternative milks available at your average grocery store today that are lactose-free and/or plant-based. Rather than dairy, stir in some coconut, almond, cashew, hemp, flax or other type of non-dairy milk to add some sweetness to your coffee.
Incorporate Probiotics
One sure-fire way to support your gut health is to incorporate probiotics into your diet. Doing so can encourage a variety of beneficial effects on your natural digestion process and promote good digestive and gut health.
Our new favorite brand is Probiogen Probiotics! Check out their selection of probiotics for digestive health by clicking here!
How do you keep your gut healthy?