Caffeine and Its Effect on Bloating
Caffeine is one of the most widely used stimulants in the world, popularised for its role in increasing energy levels and alertness. For many people, coffee is the go-to drink to increase alertness and energy and stay productive. Studies have linked caffeine to a number of health benefits like improved concentration, improved endurance, and a decrease in symptoms associated with depression.
Is Caffeine Good for Bloating?
However, the effect of caffeine on the body is not all positive. Caffeine has been found to increase levels of gastric acidity in some individuals, which is associated with increased levels of bloating. This is because caffeine relaxes the sphincter muscles in the stomach and duodenum, which weakens the digestive process. This means that food is not as efficiently digested and can lead to an increase in bloating.
Expert Opinions
Experts have mixed opinions on the consumption of coffee when dealing with bloating. Dr. Bradley Jacobs of the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Centre says consumption of coffee in moderation is safe for people who are dealing with bloating. He points out that adding cream to the coffee may not be a good idea. He recommends that people who suffer from bloating should avoid coffee altogether.
Best Alternatives for People with Bloating
Some natural alternatives to coffee for people who often suffer from bloating are herbal teas, citrus fruits and some leafy greens. Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, and ginger tea are known to help with an upset stomach. Citrus fruits and leafy greens are alkalising, meaning they help lower the level of acidity in the body. This can help with symptoms of bloating.
A Common Misconception
One of the most common misconceptions around coffee and bloating is that caffeine in coffee can contribute to dehydration. This is because coffee is a diuretic, meaning it helps the body to flush out more water than other beverages. However, this does not necessarily mean that the body becomes dehydrated. A study conducted by the University of Birmingham in 2011 concluded that caffeine does not have any significant impact on the body’s hydration levels.
Impact of Decaffeinated Coffee on Bloating
Decaffeinated coffee is a popular alternative to regular coffee amongst people with bloating. Studies have found that decaffeinated coffee has a milder effect on the body, making it a viable option for people suffering from bloating. That said, there is no definitive evidence as to whether decaffeinated coffee is more effective than regular coffee.
Recommended Caffeine Intake for People with Bloating
Caffeine is known to have a number of benefits, but it needs to be consumed in moderation. For people who suffer from bloating, the recommended amount of caffeine intake is up to 200 mg per day. That’s equivalent to two 8-ounce cups of coffee or three cans of energy drinks.
Effects of Caffeine Overconsumption On Bloating
When consumed in excess, caffeine can have negative effects on the body and can worsen symptoms of bloating. Consuming more than 400 mg of caffeine per day has been associated with increased levels of gastric acidity, which can make bloating worse. Additionally, excessive caffeine can cause an imbalance in electrolyte levels, which can also contribute to an increase in bloating.
The Bottom Line
Caffeine is a stimulant that has a number of health benefits, but it should be consumed in moderation. For people who suffer from bloating, the recommended amount of caffeine intake is up to 200 mg per day. Too much caffeine can upset the body’s electrolyte balance and increase levels of gastric acidity, resulting in an increase in bloating. Natural alternatives such as herbal teas, citrus fruits and some leafy greens also offer relief from bloating. However, it is best to avoid consuming coffee altogether if you are dealing with bloating.
