Drinking Coffee in Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a very unpleasant and uncomfortable digestive phenomenon, and it can come about for a variety of reasons, from food poisoning to medication side effects. If you live with a chronic illness, such as inflammatory bowel disease, you may also suffer from recurring diarrhea.
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and it’s often the go-to drink to help you wake up and stay alert. But when you experience bouts of diarrhea, can you still drink coffee?
Coffee and Diarrhea – What Does Science Say?
In short, drinking coffee when you have diarrhea is generally okay – but only in moderation. Caffeine is known to be a powerful stimulant for your digestive system, and can often aggravate diarrhea symptoms in the short term.
According to research, a moderate amount of coffee (2 – 3 cups per day) isn’t overly problematic for those with chronic diarrhea. Many studies have even suggested that coffee consumption may improve the symptoms of digestive disorders if consumed in a moderate amount.
A study conducted by the American Gastroenterological Association found that coffee has an anti-diarrheal effect, reducing stools from 2 to 3 times per day to 1 or 2. The study concluded that moderate coffee consumption (2 – 3 cups) may improve symptoms of chronic diarrhea.
Cautions with Drinking Coffee in Diarrhea
Although coffee in moderation is generally okay to drink when you have diarrhea, there are certain cautions to bear in mind. It’s important to be aware of the caffeine content in coffee, as this can aggravate your symptoms. Caffeinated coffee can cause increased heart rate and stimulate the digestive system, leading to worsened diarrhea.
Coffee also contains acidic compounds which can irritate the stomach and cause bloating, cramping and other digestive issues. As such, it’s best to avoid coffee with added cream or sugar, and stick to drinking plain, black coffee.
It is also important to drink plenty of fluids when you have diarrhea, so make sure to alternate your coffee with water and other hydrating drinks to ensure optimal hydration.
Drinks to Avoid During Diarrhea
It goes without saying that alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and other caffeinated beverages (tea, soda and energy drinks) are best avoided when you have diarrhea. These drinks are known to exacerbate symptoms due to their ingredients, and can also cause dehydration.
Artificial sweeteners, such as those used in diet drinks, can also lead to an increase in uncomfortable digestive symptoms, including diarrhea. If you’re prone to bouts of diarrhea, its best to limit or completely avoid these drinks.
Herbal Teas for Diarrhea
Herbal teas are a great option for those with diarrhea. Herbal teas contain natural compounds which can help reduce uncomfortable symptoms. For example, ginger tea can help to soothe the digestive tract and alleviate cramping, while peppermint tea can reduce bloating and abdominal discomfort.
You can also make your own herbal tea by adding herbs such as chamomile, lavender or fennel to a cup of hot water. These herbal teas can help to calm an upset stomach and improve digestive health.
Natural Remedies for Diarrhea
In addition to drinking herbal teas for diarrhea, there are other natural remedies which can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. You may find relief by taking digestive enzyme supplements, probiotics and probiotic-rich foods such as kefir, kimchi and yoghurt.
Another effective remedy is the BRAT diet – a diet consisting of bananas, rice, applesauce and toast – which has been found to help relieve many of the symptoms associated with diarrhea. This dietary plan can help to restore your body’s electrolyte balance and provide relief from stomach issues.
Home Remedies for Diarrhea
Other home remedies for diarrhea include drinking plenty of fluids, such as electrolyte drinks and clear soup broths, to prevent dehydration. You can also take a fiber supplement, such as psyllium husk, to absorb excess fluid in your digestive tract and improve your bowel movements.
Consider making a fresh ginger tea with honey to help reduce cramping and bloating. Other helpful foods include oatmeal, boiled potatoes, boiled carrots and cooked greens, which help to cool the digestive tract and improve your symptoms.
Possible Reasons Behind Diarrhea
Chronic diarrhea can be caused by a variety of factors, such as certain illnesses and intolerances, certain medications and even stress. If you have recurring diarrhea, it’s important to consult your doctor and have any underlying issues properly diagnosed and treated.
In some cases, dietary changes may be necessary to reduce diarrhea symptoms. This could include eating smaller meals, avoiding high-fat meals, limiting dairy and gluten, and sticking to low-fiber foods.
