There is no denying that coffee can have its perks when it comes to productivity, energy and just feeling generally good. However, its effects can be quite problematic if we don’t take the necessary steps to include the right lifestyle changes that suit our lifestyle and nutrition needs. One of the most infamous effects of drinking coffee is the dreaded “coffee poop”. If you suffer from this, here are some tips to help you not poop after drinking coffee.
1. Hydrate well
The first and foremost rule of health is to stay hydrated, and this rule applies to coffee drinkers too. It is important to drink plenty of water throughout the day and make sure to stay hydrated, before and after drinking coffee. Opt for filtered water instead of sugary beverages such as soda or juice. This can help to keep your electrolyte balance in check and help your body to better absorb the caffeine from the coffee.
2. Avoid sugary additives
Experiment with different types of coffee beans to find the one that suits you and your taste buds. Steer clear of adding sugar and sweeteners to your coffee. These additives can wreak havoc on your gastrointestinal tract, leading to an upset stomach, bloating and more worrying signs such as abdominal cramps, nausea and diarrhea. If you need a little sweetness in your coffee, try using natural sweeteners like honey, agave or maple syrup instead. These are still packed with calories and should be consumed in moderation.
3. Eat before you drink
Eating a balanced meal before drinking coffee can be beneficial for reducing the chances of post-drink stomach ache or diarrhoea. Eating for breakfast or lunch before drinking your coffee can help to reduce your risk of suffering from the ill effects of drinking coffee. Try to avoid overloading yourself with food and opt for healthy, fiber-rich options like oats, whole-grain bread, fruits, nuts and vegetables. Adding a splash of almond or oat milk to your coffee can also provide your body with some extra calories and additional protein to break down the caffeine.
4. Control caffeine intake
It’s important to monitor your caffeine intake. According to experts, having more than 400 milligrams of caffeine in a day can start to affect your sleep patterns and cause gastrointestinal discomfort. So it’s best to stick to 2-3 cups of coffee per day, although this can vary depending on your individual tolerance. If you don’t want to worry about counting the quantity of caffeine, opt for decaffeinated or cold brew coffee. This will still provide you with the same great taste of regular coffee, but with far fewer risks.
5. Wait before drinking again
If you’ve had too much coffee and feel like you’re on the verge of an upset stomach, you should wait until you’ve calmed down and your stomach has had time to settle before drinking more coffee. Give yourself a break and switch to herbal tea instead. This can help to reduce the symptoms of nausea, heartburn and diarrhea. Alternatively, if you’re a true coffee lover, wait until your stomach has fully digested the coffee before drinking a second cup.
6. Pay attention to what you eat
If you find yourself suffering from nasty symptoms after drinking coffee, the issue may actually be what you eat throughout the day. While certain unhealthy ingredients can take a toll on our digestion, changing your dietary habits can also be helpful. Eating healthy foods that are low in fat, sugar and processed ingredients can help to reduce your chances of having an upset stomach after drinking coffee. Make sure to opt for whole-grain products instead of white flour, and balance your daily meals with plenty of fruits, vegetables, plant-based proteins and healthy fats.
7. Choose the right coffee
Although you may have your favorite coffee bean variety, other coffee types can be more beneficial for your body. Look for coffees that are specially roasted and brewed in smaller batches, as they usually contain more antioxidants, minerals and other healthy compounds that can help to reduce the risk of digestive discomfort. Choosing single origin coffees, dark roasts and freshly ground beans can also provide your body with greater protection against the ill effects of coffee.
8. Get enough rest
Getting a sufficient amount of rest each night can not only help to reduce your chances of suffering from the ill effects of coffee, but it can also help you re-energize and stay focused throughout the day. Proper sleep can help to regulate your body’s hormones and reduce stress levels, both of which can help to promote better digestion and reduce your risk of post-coffee gastrointestinal issues. Make sure to turn off all electronics at least an hour before bed and try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
Takeaway
Drinking coffee can be a great way to kick-start your day, but it can also lead to uncomfortable gastrointestinal discomfort. There are some simple steps you can take to reduce the risk of post-coffee issues, such as staying hydrated, eating healthy and nutritious meals, opting for dark roast or freshly ground beans, and limiting your daily caffeine intake. Taking these measures can help to keep your digestive system in check and ensure that you don’t suffer from the dreaded “coffee poop”.
More Ways to Have a Healthy Digestion
Having a healthy digestion can mean the difference between feeling energized and sluggish. Here are four more ways to help your body get the optimal benefits from the food you are eating.
1. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
The way you eat is just as important as what you are eating. Eating too quickly or not chewing your food enough can put stress on your gastrointestinal system and lead to bloating, gas or constipation. Make sure to take your time and chew your food thoroughly to help your body break it down more easily and extract more of the good stuff.
2. Load up on the right types of fiber
Dietary fiber is necessary for proper digestion, but not all fibers are equally beneficial. Eating more high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole-grain products can help to improve your digestive health and reduce your risk of constipation. Soluble fiber from oats and barley is known to be particularly beneficial for promoting bowel regularity.
3. Avoid processed foods
Opt for fresh, whole foods whenever possible that are low in processed ingredients and additives. Eating too many processed foods can lead to weight gain, bloating, and other gastrointestinal discomfort. Replace processed snacks and sauces with healthier alternatives like nuts, seeds, dried fruits and homemade dressings.
4. Add probiotics to your diet
Probiotics are living microorganisms that are known to help support the health of your gut microbiome. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kimchi and sauerkraut in your meals or opt for a probiotic supplement to help balance your intestinal bacteria and improve your digestion. Probiotics can also help to reduce inflammation and improve your body’s response to certain foods.
