Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) is a condition in which the stomach contents rise to the esophagus, causing symptoms or complications. The increase in the incidence of GERD can be caused by several factors, one of which is the consumption of beverages such as soda, tea, and coffee. Based on the results of the study, coffee consumption has a significant relationship with the incidence of GERD.

This is because the substances contained in coffee, especially caffeine can cause a decrease in lower esophageal sphincter pressure or hypotension by relaxing the LES (Lower Esophageal Sphincter) muscles. In another study, it was stated that the mechanism that causes GERD is increased gastric acid secretion and caffeine is the main substance that induces this event.

The mechanism of caffeine that can increase GAS (Gastric Acid Secretion) is thought to be from the nature of caffeine as a bitter alkaloid. This bitter taste will induce binding to the bitter receptor in the body, namely TAS2R (Type 2 Bitter Receptor).

TAS2R is located in the oral cavity and in the stomach. TAS2R activation in the oral cavity will stimulate the excessive cephalic phase thereby increasing gastric acid production, while binding of TAS2R with caffeine that occurs in the stomach will stimulate enteroendocrine G cells excessively. This will cause G cells to produce excessive gastrin hormone which results in excessive gastric acid secretion due to the binding of gastrin and gastric parietal cells.

Source:

Hartoyo, Farrell Z R., Tandarto, Kevin., Sidharta, Veronica., & Tenggara, Riki. (2022). The Association Between Coffee Consumption and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease. The Indonesian Journal of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Digestive Endoscopy, 23(1), 11 – 16. DOI: https://doi.org/10.24871/231202211-16

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