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Does Coffee Cause Constipation or Diarrhea?

A person who has a busy life schedule knows the true worth of coffee. A cup of coffee keeps the person awake and gives them the energy to do more work. Many people start their day with a cup of coffee but have you wondered that if you drink too much coffee what can happen? Drinking too much coffee can have some effects related to the bowel. Read this article to know does coffee cause constipation or diarrhea.

Does coffee cause constipation or diarrhea

Coffee is more than a beverage. It is a diuretic and laxative. But both of these effects of coffee are not on all people. The main component of coffee is caffeine which sometimes acts as a diuretic and sometimes as a laxative. 

There is a conflict in studies that shows that people claim that coffee makes them poop, while some say that coffee does not have any laxative effect on them. Therefore, there is no particular answer to the question that coffee causes constipation or diarrhea.

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Does coffee cause constipation and bloating?

People who are sensitive to caffeine may face the problem of bloating. This happens due to the over-excitation of the digestive tract.

When a person is sensitive to caffeine and drinks coffee, he faces bloating, and when bloating happens, then constipation is also more likely to happen. But remember this too does not happen with everyone. 

Is coffee a laxative?

Calling coffee a laxative wouldn’t be wrong. Drinking coffee in the morning stimulates the process of defecation reflex. It is also known as a gastrocolic reflex. This reflex starts the bowel movement and gives a laxative effect.

Why does coffee give me diarrhea?

Caffeine in coffee is a gastrointestinal stimulant. It increases the speed of peristalsis. Due to the increase in the speed of peristalsis, the transit through the bowel is also speeding up. This results in symptoms like diarrhea and stomach cramps

Moreover coffee also contains acids that may irritate the intestinal mucosa and contribute to constipation. In addition, coffee beans are often roasted, which may increase their acidity.

What are the Bowel Problems Related to Coffee?

Coffee acid, caffeine, and other additives in coffee cause bowel problems. The bowel problems related to coffee include stomach cramps, constipation or diarrhea, ulcers, and bloating.

Sometimes it isn’t the coffee that triggers bowel problems. But some other additives like sweetener, milk, cream, and sugar may trigger bowel problems. 

Check out our: 8 Best Coffee Makers for Hard Water in 2024

Disadvantages of Drinking Coffee

No doubt coffee is a great beverage and has many advantages, but at the same time, excessive consumption of coffee has some disadvantages as well, which are:

  1. Anxiety
  2. Insomnia
  3. High blood pressure
  4. Increased heart rate 
  5. Digestive Issues

FAQs about Does Coffee Cause Constipation or Diarrhea

Can coffee make constipation worse?

Coffee can make constipation worse if you’re already constipated. Caffeine is a stimulant and can act as a diuretic, which can lead to dehydration. 

Dehydration can make constipation worse. If you’re concerned about how the coffee will affect your digestion, talk to your doctor or dietitian.

Should I stop drinking coffee if I’m constipated?

There’s no need to stop drinking coffee if you’re constipated. Coffee may even have a laxative effect. However, some people are sensitive to the caffeine in coffee and may experience digestive problems as a result. 

How much coffee per day is too much?

There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people can drink a lot of coffee without experiencing any negative effects.

Caffeine may cause digestive problems for some, while others may be more sensitive to it.

How can I avoid getting constipated from coffee?

There is no surefire way to avoid getting constipated from coffee. However, you can try to limit your intake of caffeinated beverages, increase your water intake, and eat a high-fiber diet.

What are the side effects of drinking too much coffee?

Drinking too much coffee can lead to side effects such as anxiety, jitters, and insomnia. Too much caffeine can also cause dehydration, which can make constipation worse.

Conclusion

I hope by reading this article you now know about what effects coffee has on your health and what you can do to improve your health. Reading this article will help you cut down on the unnecessary intake of coffee and will help you deal with your digestive problems. Happy Reading!

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