You’ve no doubt heard of the saying, ‘everything in moderation’, and yet many people find themselves struggling with a morning coffee addiction. But can you have too much of a good thing? Recent studies suggest a link between drinking too much coffee and constipation, leading people to wonder if coffee really is their friend or foe.
Coffee’s stimulating effects are well known. Caffeic acid, one of coffee’s main ingredients, stimulates the nerves in the body, resulting in increased stomach muscle exertion and increased bowel movement. But does that make the coffee an overall ‘good’ or ‘bad’ influence on digestion?
To answer this question, one needs to examine the full range of coffee’s effects on the body. Coffee is known to have a mild laxative effect and can sometimes help people to have regular bowel movements. However, too much consumption of coffee can cause dehydration, leading to the opposite of a laxative effect – constipation.
Furthermore, the caffeine in coffee can act as a stimulant in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to prolonged contractions. This means that while coffee can help people have a regular bowel movement, too much caffeine could actually lead to constipation as the gut doesn’t have enough time to rest.
It’s important to note that everyone’s body is different and will react to coffee in its own way. While some may find that coffee helps them with their digestion, others may experience constipation after drinking too much. Nutritionists suggest reducing the amount of coffee consumed and replacing it with lots of water to stay hydrated.
Experts such as nutritionists suggest drinking only up to four cups of coffee a day, as anything more could put your body in stress and make you more susceptible to health complications. Caffeine also tends to have a negative effect in people’s sleeping patterns, resulting in an overall feeling of fatigue.
Healthy Alternatives To Coffee
There are numerous healthy alternatives to coffee available. Many people opt for herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint and rooibos which aid digestion as well as having relaxing and restorative properties. Furthermore, green tea is becoming increasingly popular and is a great way to get a much-needed energy boost without the downsides of coffee.
Apple cider vinegar is also a great stimulant of regular digestion and is particularly effective in relieving constipation. All you have to do is mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a glass of warm water, drink it and feel the benefits almost instantly!
Drinking Coffee In Moderation
The good news is that with a balanced diet and moderate coffee consumption, people can enjoy their cup of coffee without feeling anxious. Drinking coffee in moderation and making sure your body is kept hydrated throughout the day will help ensure that your body is receiving the correct amount of nutrition.
It is important to note that excessive coffee consumption is not advisable, as it can lead to health complications related to the gastrointestinal system. Furthermore, it is recommended to consult a nutritionist or doctor if you experience any digestive issues.
Concluding Remarks
It is clear that coffee has many positives and negatives when it comes to digestion. Regular consumption of coffee can help keep your digestion regular, whereas excessive consumption can lead to constipation and other unpleasant side effects. Therefore, moderation is the key to enjoying coffee while keeping your digestive system healthy and preventing any potential health complications.
Benefits Beyond Digestion
Regular coffee consumption can have a positive impact on your overall mental and physical health. It has been scientifically proven that coffee can have a positive effect on mental focus and alertness, making it particularly popular among university students who need to jump start their morning.
Furthermore, it is known that coffee can also reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and certain types of cancer, providing many people with an alternate health benefit rather than just aiding digestion.
Drawbacks Other Than Digestion
Like anything, regular coffee consumption comes with risks. The higher caffeine content in the coffee won’t only upset your digestion, but could also result in an increased heart rate and sometimes, high blood pressure. Therefore, it is important to be mindful of how much coffee you are consuming on a regular basis.
Furthermore, people with caffeine sensitivities are more likely to experience more extreme side effects such as headaches, irritability, shakiness and even nausea. Therefore, it is important to understand the effects that coffee can have on the body and to adjust the amount that you are consuming accordingly.
The Recommended Limit of Coffee Consumption
In general, nutritionists suggest avoiding the consumption of more than four cups of coffee a day as it can lead to dehydration and ultimately, counteract any benefits that the coffee may have had on the digestive system. Therefore, monitoring your intake is key source when it comes to healthy coffee consumption.
Furthermore, it is advisable to consult a doctor or nutritionist if you experience any issues related to digestion and coffee consumption. This will help them to evaluate your individual health and provide advice tailored specifically to your needs.
