Our precious coffee beans have been brewed for centuries for social occasions or for picking up the energy throughout the day. But it can have an unpleasant side effect that few like to talk about – frequent bowel movements. So how can we still enjoy the benefits of coffee without ending up having to frequently ‘go’ ?
The main cause of coffee-related bowel movements is the caffeine content. Caffeine has a stimulating effect on the digestive tract, causing increased muscular contractions and increased water absorption in the colon. But this doesn’t mean that we have to give up coffee altogether. There are still ways to enjoy it without having to worry about going to the bathroom more than we need to.
A great way to reduce the effect of coffee on your bowel movements is to drink decaffeinated beverages. Decaffeinated coffee is available from most coffee shops and you can also buy decaf coffee beans online or from health food stores. Decaf coffee still has some of the same health benefits as regular coffee, such as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, but it is much gentler on the stomach. You could also try cold-brewed coffee, since this method of brewing reduces the amount of caffeine in the finished product.
Another great way to reduce the impact of coffee on your bowel movements is to increase your daily fiber intake. Eating plenty of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and high-fiber snacks can help to keep your bowels regular and reduce the amount of caffeine that can cause discomfort. Additionally, drinking plenty of water and eating a well-balanced diet can also help to reduce the impact of coffee on your digestive system.
Finally, there are some additional strategies you can use to reduce the effect of coffee on your digestive system. For example, drinking coffee in small amounts throughout the day can help to reduce the intensity of its effect on your bowels. Additionally, drinking your coffee quickly, rather than slowly over time, can have a similar effect.
Eliminate Bloating and Gas
If you find that coffee causes bloating and gas, there are a few things you can do to help alleviate your symptoms. First, try switching to decaf coffee, since the caffeine content is what can cause bloating and gas. Additionally, you could try cold-brewed coffee, since this method of brewing reduces the amount of caffeine in the finished product. Finally, adding a little bit of lemon juice to your coffee can help reduce gas and bloating as well.
Avoid Spikes in Blood Sugar
If you find that coffee causes a spike in your blood sugar, you may want to limit the amount of coffee you consume. Some people react more strongly to coffee than others, and your blood sugar can be adversely affected if you have high amounts of caffeine. You could also try drinking decaffeinated coffee, since this will reduce the amount of caffeine in each cup. Additionally, adding milk to your coffee can help stabilize your blood sugar levels as well.
Manage Stress Levels
Coffee can have a stimulating effect on the body, which can increase stress levels and make it harder to relax. If you are looking to manage your stress, it is best to limit your coffee intake and switch to decaf. Additionally, you could try drinking tea instead of coffee, since tea can help to reduce stress while providing some of the same health benefits as coffee. Finally, drinking plenty of water throughout the day and eating a balanced diet can also help to reduce stress.
Monitor Caffeine Intake
It is always important to pay attention to the amount of caffeine you consume, since too much can have a negative impact on your health. The recommended daily caffeine intake for adults is 400mg per day. Additionally, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should speak to their doctor about the best amount of caffeine for them. Furthermore, it is also important to pay attention to the other sources of caffeine that you consume, such as energy drinks, soda, or chocolate.
