The stomach forms part of the upper gastrointestinal tract - where hormones, enzymes and acid are secreted and combine with ingested food and drink, as part of the digestion process.
Research indicates that coffee consumption stimulates the secretion of gastrin, the hormone produced by the cells of the stomach wall, which in turn stimulates gastric acid production17. This also plays an important role in destroying microorganisms in ingested food.
The stomach contents are gradually emptied into the small intestine, and research suggests that coffee consumption does not influence the rate of stomach emptying17.
Research to date shows no definitive association between coffee consumption and a number of common stomach disorders.
Dyspepsia
Dyspepsia is also commonly known as indigestion.
- A large study investigated the associations between coffee and caffeine intake and the odds of functional dyspepsia. After controlling for potential confounding factors, no significant association was observed between coffee and caffeine consumption and the risk of developing functional dyspepsia2
Heartburn and GORD
Heartburn and gastro oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) are closely related yet distinct conditions. Heartburn is a symptom of acid reflux, where gastric acid flows back into the oesophagus, which can range in severity, and cause pain or burning in the upper abdomen. GORD is a chronic, more severe form of acid reflux, characterised by recurrent return of gastric acid into the oesophagus. Symptoms of GORD may include frequent heartburn, regurgitation of food or liquid and difficulty swallowing.
Coffee consumption has been suggested as a possible cause in some cases, however there is no evidence that it affects the symptoms of GORD3,4. Those who suffer from symptoms often self-regulate their diet according to their own sensitivities and some patients may choose to limit their coffee consumption. Although some research suggests coffee drinking is perceived as a risk factor for GORD, several studies have found no association.
- A 2023 review suggested that whilst certain trigger foods including citrus, coffee, chocolate, fried and spicy foods are often reported to worsen reflux symptoms, robust evidence is lacking. The authors proposed that large meal volume and high calorie content may be more important factors3
- A 2020 review of observational studies indicated that whilst adiposity, smoking, coffee, and alcohol intake were amongst the identified risk factors, that environmental factors also influenced the outcome. The authors therefore concluded that none were proven to be convincing risk factors4
Gastritis
Gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining that may cause pain, inflammation, and nausea.
There is no evidence that coffee influences the development of gastritis5. Patients who suffer with painful gastritis often choose to avoid certain foods or beverages if they experience discomfort, and self-management is common5.
Stomach cancer
Research to date shows that there is no evidence to suggest a link between coffee consumption and the risk of developing stomach cancer. In 2016, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reviewed all available scientific evidence and found no clear association between coffee intake and cancer at any body site, including the stomach15.
- A 2022 meta-analysis suggested that there was no significant association between coffee consumption and stomach cancer, though differing results from US studies warrant further investigation18
- Another meta-analysis however concluded that coffee drinking had no significant effect on stomach cancer19
Further detailed information on coffee and cancer is available here.
