If you’re a coffee lover, you probably already know that your morning cup can sometimes come with a few downsides. Whether it’s an upset stomach, heartburn, or just an uncomfortable feeling after drinking it, coffee's acidity can leave some people wishing for a better solution. Enter baking soda—a simple, yet powerful ingredient that can transform your coffee experience.

While it’s most commonly used for baking, cleaning, and deodorizing, baking soda can also be a game-changer when it comes to improving your cup of coffee. Let’s dive into the top three surprising benefits of adding baking soda to your coffee and how it can help alleviate common coffee-related discomforts.

1. Neutralizes Coffee’s Acidic Nature to Protect Your Stomach

Coffee is naturally acidic, with a pH of about 5. That’s a lot lower than neutral water (which has a pH of 7), and even lower than other popular drinks like orange juice and soda. For some, this acidity can trigger digestive issues such as heartburn, acid reflux, and general stomach discomfort. This is especially true for those who love their coffee and drink it daily.

But here’s the good news—baking soda is mildly alkaline, which means it can neutralize the acid in your coffee. Adding just a pinch of baking soda to your brew can help raise the pH level, making it less harsh on your stomach. As a natural antacid, baking soda works by balancing out the acidity in your cup, helping to prevent discomfort like acid reflux or heartburn.

Research supports this as well. Studies show that baking soda, being a natural pH neutralizer, can help alleviate symptoms of acid reflux by neutralizing excess stomach acid. If you're someone who enjoys multiple cups of coffee a day but suffers from digestive upset, adding a small amount of baking soda to your coffee may provide the relief you need to enjoy your cup without the after-effects.

2. Helps Manage Acid Reflux and GERD Symptoms

If you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or frequent acid reflux, you know how uncomfortable it can be when your stomach acid moves up into your esophagus. Coffee, unfortunately, can trigger this condition due to both its caffeine content and its acidity. But by adding a pinch of baking soda to your coffee, you can help prevent these painful symptoms.

Baking soda has long been used as a remedy for heartburn and acid reflux, and for good reason. Its alkalizing properties can help neutralize stomach acid and prevent it from irritating your esophagus. Since coffee can often contribute to these symptoms, the idea of adding something to make it less acidic is a smart and natural solution.

When it comes to GERD, even decaffeinated coffee can exacerbate the condition. This is because the other compounds in coffee, such as chlorogenic acids, can also contribute to reflux. Baking soda, however, can help mitigate this effect. A small pinch added to your coffee could be all it takes to ease the burn and keep you feeling comfortable. While it may not be a cure for GERD, it certainly helps manage symptoms and reduces the discomfort associated with drinking coffee.

3. Relieves Gout Symptoms by Neutralizing Uric Acid

Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in the bloodstream, leading to painful, swollen joints. The condition is known for sudden flare-ups, usually in the toes, but can affect any joint. While there are several medications designed to manage gout, many people are surprised to learn that baking soda can help with this condition, too.

Adding baking soda to your coffee may help neutralize the excess uric acid in your body. When uric acid levels are too high, they can form crystals in the joints, causing intense pain and inflammation. Baking soda, with its ability to alkalize the blood, may assist in dissolving these crystals, helping to reduce the frequency and severity of gout flare-ups.

In a study published by GoutDiet.org, it was shown that alkalizing the blood with baking soda can help lower uric acid levels, making it easier for the kidneys to filter out the acid and expel it through urine. For those who enjoy coffee but suffer from gout, a pinch of baking soda in your cup might help manage your symptoms while still allowing you to indulge in your favorite drink. However, it’s important to note that if you have gout or other medical conditions, you should consult your healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or treatment plan.

How to Add Baking Soda to Your Coffee: A Simple Guide

Now that you know the incredible benefits of adding baking soda to your coffee, you might be wondering how to do it properly. Fortunately, it’s quick, easy, and can be done in a few simple steps. Here are two ways to add baking soda to your coffee:

1. Mix it into Your Coffee Grounds: Before brewing your coffee, add a small pinch of baking soda (about 1/4 teaspoon) to your coffee grounds. This will help neutralize the acidity in the entire pot. You can adjust the amount based on how much coffee you're brewing, but start with a small amount to avoid an overly bitter or soapy taste.

   
   

2. Stir it into Your Cup: If you’ve already brewed your coffee and want to neutralize the acidity in just one cup, you can add a small pinch of baking soda directly into your mug. Stir well to ensure it dissolves completely, and enjoy a smoother, less acidic cup of coffee.

   
   

Tip: Don’t overdo it. Baking soda is potent, and using too much can leave a bitter, soapy aftertaste. Start small and gradually increase the amount as needed, but a pinch should generally be enough for most people.

Final Thoughts

Adding baking soda to your coffee might sound unusual, but it could be the answer to your coffee-related digestive issues. Whether you’re struggling with stomach discomfort, acid reflux, or even gout, this simple, natural remedy can help alleviate symptoms and make your morning coffee much more enjoyable.

The best part? Baking soda is an affordable, easy-to-find solution that works without the need for expensive medications or drastic lifestyle changes. So, next time you brew your coffee, try adding a pinch of baking soda and see how it works for you. It could be the secret to a smoother, more comfortable cup of coffee every time.

Enjoy your cup of joe without the acid burn!