Background information
Diarrhea is a digestive problem characterized by the frequent passing of soft, watery stools (often accompanied by abdominal pain, cramping, bloating and fatigue). Often the result of a viral or bacterial infection, diarrhea can last anywhere from a few hours to a few days. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, it may be necessary to seek medical advice or take a course of antibiotics.
A common home remedy for alleviating the symptoms of diarrhea is to drink black coffee. The caffeine present in coffee is believed to help relax the intestine and pelvic muscles, reducing the severity of the symptoms and helping to restore firmness. Caffeine also has stimulant properties which can help to give the body an energy boost.
What the experts say
The scientific evidence on the efficacy of caffeine in treating diarrhea is limited. One small study from 2013 showed that caffeine may reduce the severity of the symptoms by up to 60%. However, more research is needed to confirm this effect.
Many doctors and healthcare professionals advise against drinking coffee as a remedy for diarrhea. They worry that the caffeine can irritate the sensitive lining of the gut and exacerbate the symptoms. They also suggest that the stimulant properties can lead to dehydration, which is already a risk if you are affected by diarrhea.
Insights and analysis
While the evidence does seem to suggest that caffeine may help relieve the symptoms of diarrhea, it is important to consider that everyone responds differently to caffeine. Those with sensitive stomachs may find it harder to tolerate, and it may not be suitable for those with certain health conditions such as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome).
It is therefore important to be mindful of your own physical and mental response to caffeine when considering a remedy for diarrhea. It may be wise to consult with a doctor or healthcare professional before taking a course of self-medication.
Alternatives
If drinking coffee is not a good option for you, there are other remedies that may help to alleviate the symptoms of diarrhea.
One of the most commonly recommended treatments is to eat small, light meals throughout the day and drink plenty of fluids. This will help to keep hydrated and replenish the body with essential nutrients lost through the illness. Probiotics, available in supplement form, are also thought to be beneficial.
Opinions
The opinions surrounding drinking black coffee for the treatment of diarrhea are generally mixed. Some people swear by it, claiming it has made all the difference to their symptoms. Others, however, have found the caffeine too irritating or simply prefer not to drink coffee at all.
The bottom line is, if it works for you, then it may help to relieve some of the symptoms of diarrhea. If it doesn’t, however, then it may be best to avoid caffeine and choose alternative remedies. It is also wise to consult a medical professional if the symptoms persist.
Managing diarrhea by diet
When suffering from diarrhea, it is important to avoid certain foods that may aggravate the symptoms. These include:
-Spicy foods
-Fatty foods
-Dairy products
-Caffeinated drinks
-Alcohol
-High-fiber foods
Instead, opt for foods that are easy to digest and contain plenty of fluids. These include:
-Bananas
-Broths
-Soups
-Applesauce
-Plain rice
-Boiled potatoes
-Plain oats
-Cooked carrots
Prescribing and over-the-counter medications
If the symptoms of diarrhea persist, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or anti-diarrhoeals. Alternatively, there are many over-the-counter treatments available to relieve the symptoms. These can include loperamide, bismuth subsalicylate, and cholestyramine.
It is also recommended that anyone suffering from diarrhea takes probiotics on a regular basis to help repopulate the gut with beneficial bacteria.
Preventative measures
The best way to avoid the uncomfortable and often unpleasant symptoms of diarrhea is to take preventive measures. This means ensuring that you are eating a balanced diet and avoiding foods that are high in fat, sugar or processed ingredients.
It is also important to practice good hygiene and wash your hands regularly. This will help to minimize the risk of coming into contact with bacteria that can cause an infection.
Finally, it is important to stay hydrated to keep the body functioning optimally. Plain water is the most beneficial, but other fluids such as herbal teas and diluted fruit juices can also help to keep you hydrated.
