10. Coffee: It’s Complicated
Let’s debunk a myth: coffee doesn’t cause duodenal ulcers. But, like a complicated relationship, it doesn’t exactly help matters either. You may want to rethink your love affair with that morning cup of joe if you’re dealing with a duodenal ulcer.
See, coffee is acidic, and consuming it regularly can aggravate an existing ulcer. It can increase stomach acid production and even weaken the protective mucus lining of your stomach. It’s a cocktail of irritation for your duodenal ulcer.
It gets a little messier with decaf. While it’s less acidic than regular coffee, decaf doesn’t get a clean bill of health either. Some studies suggest that even decaf can increase stomach acid production, though to a lesser degree.
And how about those fancy coffee drinks laden with sugar and cream? Bad news. The high sugar content can also contribute to a more acidic environment, making your ulcer feel like it’s on fire. (10)
