Coffee researchers consider blocking hydrochloric acid

Coffee researchers identify stomach friendly ingredient: Beverage Daily says "New research into the causes of stomach problems sometimes experienced by coffee drinkers has uncovered an ingredient that could pave the way for gentler brews."

The article goes on to discuss how N-methylpyridium (NMP) in coffee seems to block the ability of the stomach cells to produce hydrochloric acid and could provide a way to reduce or avoid stomach irritation. The researchers seem to assume that blocking hydrochloric acid is a good thing. Perhaps for some people... but for some of us, we already produce too little acid to digest protein and break down minerals, so the special coffee being proposed could interfere with digestion at mealtimes.