“These essential plant proteins in coffee promote everything from longevity, protection from Alzheimer’s disease, a normal weight, a healthy microbiome, and remarkable relief of depression and anxiety,” he says.

“Most notably, coffee can irritate heartburn as caffeine is a relaxant to the sphincter that controls acid staying in the stomach versus moving inappropriately back up into the esophagus.”

Serena Poon, CN, CHC, CHN, celebrity chef and nutritionist, points out that some research has found that people who experience a negative reaction to coffee will have it regardless of whether or not they drink the beverage with food.

Hueber adds that coffee also stimulates cortisol release from the adrenals, which creates a stress response in the body and can exacerbate gut symptoms such as loose stools or even constipation —which explains why many people tend to do their business shortly after drinking a cup or two.

“If you have negative reactions to coffee, such as heartburn, digestive discomfort or nausea, or an increase of feelings of stress and anxiety, I would recommend experimenting with a change in habit,” says Poon.

“Keep in mind that common additions to coffee, such as dairy and sugar might also cause digestive discomfort, so it might be a good idea to bring those habits up for review as well,” suggests Poon.