Drinking Coffee When Stomach Is Upset
We’ve all experienced it: that stomachache that just won’t go away. And when it comes to looking for a solution, many of us turn to that classic go-to—coffee. But can coffee really help ease the pain or make it worse?
It really depends on your individual health and the cause of your stomachache. Coffee can in fact settle a mild stomachache for some people, especially if it’s due to simple indigestion. Caffeinated beverages may stimulate the intestines, which can lead to relief of gastrointestinal symptoms. But depending on the cause of your stomach discomfort, drinking a cup of coffee may not be the best remedy.
If you have an inflamed stomach lining, consuming coffee can be especially risky. The acidity of coffee can further irritate your sensitive stomach and cause the symptoms to worsen. Or in the worst case scenario, increase the pain and cause ulcers or other digestive tract conditions.
Coffee can also exacerbate pre-existing conditions such as heartburn, acid reflux and ulcerative colitis. In this case, your best bet may be to switch to an herbal or decaf variety, or give up coffee altogether and explore alternative treatments.
In other instances, people have had a history of stomachaches, accompanied by high levels of acidity. If you fall into this category, consuming coffee could lead to more severe symptoms, such as nausea, abdominal cramps, vomiting, or even diarrhea.
The caffeine in coffee can also have an adverse effect on certain medical conditions. It can trigger an already existing heartburn or raise your blood pressure, placing you at risk for other symptoms, such as dehydration, dizziness, lightheadedness, or even fainting.
Since caffeine is a stimulant, it can make matters worse in some cases. The same goes for any other caffeinated beverage, such as tea or energy drinks, which can affect the way the lining of your stomach functions, either calming or aggravating it.
It’s always important to talk to your doctor if you are concerned about any potential adverse effects from consuming coffee. Once you know the cause of your stomachache, they can help you make an informed decision on if, and how, to consume coffee.
Alternative Treatments
If you’ve been advised to stay away from coffee, there are several alternative treatments you can choose from to ease your stomachache. Bismuth subsalicylate, or Pepto–Bismol, is an over-the-counter treatment that may provide temporary relief from the pain and discomfort. Peppermint, ginger and chamomile have all been used to reduce the symptoms of stomachaches, as well.
Probiotics are another popular remedy for stomachaches. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria and yeasts that help balance the levels of healthy bacteria in your digestive tract. This can support and maintain your digestive health and potentially reduce the symptoms of your stomachache.
If the cause of your stomachache is due to stress or anxiety, some rest and relaxation, such as mindfulness exercises, light exercise, or taking a warm, relaxing bath can sometimes help to reduce the symptoms. It’s important to take time for yourself and practice self–care.
For more severe and persistent stomachaches, it is always best to seek medical advice and figure out the root cause of your stomach discomfort.
Effect of Caffeine
Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, chocolate and energy drinks, and can box have a physical effect on your body. Caffeine is known to increase alertness, heart rate and blood pressure. It can also interfere with the absorption and digestion of nutrients, potentially causing stomachache. Some people are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than others and higher caffeine intake can also lead to headaches and other side effects.
Caffeine stimulates the release of stomach acid, which can further worsen symptoms of pre-existing conditions, such as acid reflux and GERD. It can also cause diarrhea, particularly when consumed in large amounts. Caffeine can also interfere with your sleep patterns and cause fatigue.
Depending on how much coffee you consume, it can affect your daily life. If you feel like your stomachache is caused by excessive intake of caffeine, reducing your intake may improve your symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Advice
In some cases, a stomachache may be a sign of more serious underlying medical issue. If your stomachache persists or is severe, it is important to seek medical advice. Your doctor will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment and any lifestyle changes that may be necessary.
Common causes of abdominal pain include menstrual cramps, infections, constipation, indigestion and food intolerance. More serious causes are appendicitis, intestinal obstruction, gallbladder problems and kidney stones. Severe pain may also be a sign of a heart attack.
Your doctor may recommend a variety of treatments, such as medication for pain relief or antibiotics for infections. Your doctor may also recommend a change in lifestyle, such as reducing caffeine, alcohol and other substances that can irritate the stomach.
Reducing Intake Of Caffeine
If you are experiencing abdominal pain and have tried alternative treatments and lifestyle changes, but the pain persists, reducing your intake of caffeine may be the best remedy. For some people, completely eliminating caffeine may be the solution, while for others a moderate intake may be appropriate until symptoms subside.
It can be difficult to give up coffee and other caffeinated beverages, so it is important to be mindful of your intake and seek advice from your doctor. Keep a diary of your symptoms to help track your progress and determine if reducing or eliminating caffeine is helping.
Often, simply switching from regular coffee to decaf is enough to reduce abdominal pain. Decaffeinated coffee still contains a small amount of caffeine, but it is considered safe for most adults. It is important to read the label of decaf coffee to ensure the caffeine content is low.
Be aware that some energy drinks, bottled teas and flavored coffees may contain added caffeine if they have been processed or flavoured. Artificial sweeteners and sugar-free syrups can also contain added caffeine, so be sure to read the labels and avoid these beverages if you are trying to reduce your intake.
Consulting A Doctor
It is always best to speak to your doctor before making any drastic changes to your lifestyle. The cause of your stomachache may be due to something greater, such as an infection or other underlying medical condition. Your doctor can advise you on the best course of action and provide you with guidance on how to manage your symptoms.
Your doctor may also recommend other treatments, such as home remedies and over-the-counter medications. Avoid self-medicating and always consult with a professional before starting any new medication.
Conclusion
In general, it is best to avoid coffee and other caffeinated beverages if you are experiencing stomach pain. However, the severity of the pain and the cause of the stomachache will affect whether or not coffee consumption is recommended. As always, be sure to consult your doctor before making any lifestyle changes.
