Coffee and Gastric Issues
Coffee has been a favorite for many years as it has a natural pick-me-up effect. However, some people find that coffee causes discomfort in their stomachs. This can range from mild irritation to more serious gastric issues. It is important to know what to drink if coffee upsets your stomach.
Caffeine Sensitivity
It is possible that some people may be sensitive to caffeine, the main ingredient in coffee. When caffeine enters the body, it increases the production of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones can cause an increase in blood pressure and an accelerated heart rate, which can cause discomfort in some people who are sensitive to it.
Additionally, caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it increases urination, and some people may find that this causes their bodies to become dehydrated. People who are particularly sensitive to caffeine can find that they experience digestive discomfort or gastric spasms when they consume it.
What to Drink
If coffee upsets your stomach, there are alternatives that can offer the same pick-me-up effect without the gastric issues. One potential option is herbal tea, which is rich in antioxidants and contains no caffeine. Herbal teas can help to relax the digestive system, allowing for greater ease in digestion. Additionally, green tea has the same antioxidizing effects and is also very low in caffeine.
If you’re looking for a fully caffeinated beverage, decaf coffee is also an option. Decaf coffee has 90-97% of its caffeine removed, and can provide the same taste as regular coffee without the same risk of gastric issues. Additionally, there are options such as chicory extract and dandelion root tea that mimic the flavor of coffee and might offer a pleasant alternative if coffee upsets your stomach.
The Health Benefits of Coffee Substitutes
In addition to helping to ease gastric issues, some coffee substitutes may offer their own unique health benefits. Herbal teas come in many flavors and all of them have their own unique array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Dandelion root tea contains fiber, which can help to keep the digestive system functioning healthily, and chicory extract is a rich source of magnesium and potassium.
Green tea is also filled with polyphenols such as catechins and flavonoids, which have been linked with a reduced incidence of heart disease, stroke, and even cancer.
Finding the Right Substitute
When looking for a coffee substitute, it is important to find one that fits your tastes and lifestyle. Many people find that switching between different alternatives can be a great way to find the most suitable option. You may even find that some coffee substitutes can give you an energy boost without the need to consume any caffeine.
When it comes to dieting, many people also turn to coffee substitutes as a way to help control their cravings. Many drinks, such as herbal teas, can help suppress appetite and may actually help with weight loss. Therefore, if coffee upsets your stomach, finding the right coffee substitute could not only help your digestion, but may even help you lose weight.
Switching Over Gradually
If you are wanting to switch from coffee to a coffee substitute, it is important to switch over gradually. This will help your body to adjust to the change in taste and prevent any gastric issues. Additionally, some people find that switching gradually may help them to avoid headaches or other withdrawal symptoms that are sometimes experienced when switching from coffee.
Caffeine Alternatives For Pre-Workout Boost
Caffeine can be an effective way to give yourself a boost prior to exercise, and coffee substitutes can offer the same effect without being as harsh on the stomach. Green tea, for example, contains less caffeine than coffee, yet can still provide enough energy to power your pre-workout routine. Additionally, herbal teas can help to improve alertness and clarity without any of the gastric discomfort that is sometimes experienced with coffee.
Incorporating Coffee Into Your Diet
If coffee still remains your favorite beverage, it is possible to incorporate it into your diet in a more stomach-friendly way. Avoiding large quantities of coffee and instead drinking smaller amounts, or only drinking coffee with meals can help to minimize gastric issues. Additionally, choosing coffee varieties that contain less acidity or using coffee substitutes such as chicory extract can also help to reduce any stomach discomfort.
Final Thoughts
If coffee upsets your stomach, it is important to know what to drink as an alternative. Thankfully, there are many options available that are just as energizing without compromising your stomach health. Herbal tea and green tea are great options if you don’t want to completely give up on caffeine, and chicory extract and dandelion root tea can provide a pleasant alternative to coffee. Ultimately, by understanding what to drink if coffee upsets your stomach, you can continue to enjoy a tasty and energizing morning beverage without worrying about the effects on your stomach.
