Constipation is an all too common problem, with over four million visits to NHS each year related to constipation treatment and advice. Coffee might be the answer to this issue as research shows that caffeine helps an individual’s bowels to move more quickly. Despite not being scientifically proven, people have anecdotally found that drinking coffee helps with constipation and has numerous health benefits.
Consuming caffeinated beverages such as coffee activates certain proteins in the body’s system. These proteins are responsible for regulating the movement of water and electrolytes, both of which are associated with the normal functioning of the intestines. The proteins act to speed up peristalsis, which is the contraction responsible for flushing out faeces from the rectum.
Coffee as a remedy for constipation has also been attributed to its natural laxative properties. This means that coffee helps an individual’s bowels to move more quickly, which goes hand in hand with constipation relief. The natural laxative properties of coffee are further strengthened by the two acidic compounds, caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid, found in coffee.
Coffee can act as a remedy to constipation in moderation. Drinking a couple of cups of coffee a day is enough to activate the proteins mentioned previously, helping to alleviate the problem. Doctors advise patients to drink a cup of coffee every morning and middle of the day to help keep their digestive systems regular.
The health benefits associated with caffeine intake also include improved cognitive functions and motor skills, as well as concentration, reaction time and memory performance. Furthermore, according to a study in the Annals of Internal Medicine, the more coffee people drink, the less likely they are to die from heart disease, stroke, cancer, neurological diseases, type 2 diabetes, and kidney and liver disease.
The previously mentioned health benefits of coffee can complement the health benefits gained from alleviating constipation. However, it is important to note that drinking excessive amounts of coffee can create problems in the digestive system, so it is best to stick to moderate intakes.
Other Herbal Teas
Other herbal teas can also be used to help with constipation, but their laxative effects are weaker when compared to the effects of coffee. Ginger tea is a popular constipation remedy and is made by infusing ginger root in boiling water. It is known to ease abdominal bloating and pain, in addition to alleviating constipation.
Fennel tea is known tohave carminative, digestive and antispasmodic effects. It contains a compound called anethol which is known to stimulate intestinal mucosal cells and increases stretching of the intestines. This helps to improve the digestive process and reduce constipation.
Senna tea is made with the leaves, fruit and flowers of the senna plant, a type of shrub that grows in India and tropical Africa. Since antiquity, senna tea has been used as a remedy for digestive ailments and constipation.
Lastly, chamomile tea has long been used as a remedy for constipation due to its antispasmodic effects. Its compounds help to stimulate smooth muscles in the intestines, which increases peristaltic movement and helps digestion.
Healthy Eating and Exercise
In addition to drinking coffee and herbal teas, a healthy diet is recommended for constipation relief. Eating smaller meals, with a focus on vegetables and whole grains, can help regulate the digestive system as it introduces more fibre into the diet. It is also important to drink more water and stay hydrated to help the bowels maintain their moisture.
Exercising regularly is also beneficial for constipation relief as it aids the passing of stool. Cardiovascular exercises such as running and cycling increase the blood flow to the digestive tract, creating movement that activates muscles responsible for digestion. In addition, it is important to take regular walks as they help to break down food, reduce bloating and support the passage of gas.
Alternative Causes of Constipation
Constipation may also be caused by certain medications like codeine, antidiarrheal medicines and Iron supplements. These medicines and supplements reduce the activity in the digestive tract, which can lead to constipation. In addition, certain chronic conditions like thyroid disorders, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and Crohn’s disease affect the digestive system and can lead to constipation.
It is important to visit a doctor if constipation becomes persistent and is accompanied by pain and bloating. Drinking coffee may provide some relief from constipation, but further medical advice is required to better understand the root cause of the chronic constipation and to receive an appropriate treatment plan.
Additional Considerations
Coffee is an easy and effective remedy for constipation, but it is important to remember to moderate your intake. Caffeine can cause stomach irritation, so it is advisable to drink it in moderation. Drinking coffee with milk can help to reduce stomach irritation as milk neutralizes the acidity of coffee.
In general, it is important to experiment to find which beverage and food works best for you. Aloe vera and fruit juices are also known to help with constipation, although diarrhoea can be a side effect. It is always advisable to consult a doctor in cases where constipation becomes persistent and chronic.
Stimulant Supplements
Finally, stimulant supplements are common solutions for constipation. These supplements are divided into two groups: osmotic laxatives and stimulant laxatives. Osmotic laxatives introduce fluids into the colon, increasing faecal matter’s volume which helps in softer and easier bowel movements. Stimulant laxatives, on the other hand, act as a stimulant for the muscles in the digestive system, promoting more effective elimination.
It is important to note that supplements should only be consumed when recommended by a doctor. It is also important to avoid regular consumption of stimulant supplements as this can weaken the intestines’ muscles and reduce their functioning.
Lifestyle Changes
Making lifestyle changes is an important part of treating and preventing constipation. It is helpful to set a routine where one consumes meals regularly and on time. This also applies to drinking coffee, as regulating the time at which one drinks it can help to avoid unforeseen problems.
It is important to control stress, get enough sleep and exercise regularly to improve the functioning of the digestive system and combat constipation. Lastly, it is important to start keeping a food diary, as this can help identify food items that cause constipation.
