Introduction
Coffee is perhaps the world’s most widely consumed beverage and has been consumed by humans for centuries. The popularity of coffee is due in part to its distinctive taste, but also because it contains caffeine, which some believe gives people an energized and revitalizing feeling.
However, the question arises: Is it okay to drink coffee when you have diarrhea? Or, in other words, can coffee help to relieve the symptoms? In this article, we will take a closer look at how consuming coffee affects your body when it is dealing with diarrhea.
What Is Diarrhea?
Diarrhea is a condition in which a person has three or more loose or liquid bowel movements within the span of a day. It is commonly caused by a virus, parasite, infection, or a side effect of medication. Diarrhea can also happen for reasons other than health-related ones, such as eating something spoiled.
Coffee and Caffeine
Coffee contains a stimulant known as caffeine. Caffeine is a chemical found in coffee, tea, chocolate, certain medications, and certain energy drinks. It is a mild stimulant that temporarily makes people alert, increases the heart rate, and stimulates cognitive functions such as memory, concentration, and reasoning.
How Does Caffeine Affect Diarrhea?
Caffeine has been linked to worsening diarrheal symptoms. A study conducted in 2016 found that people who consumed larger amounts of coffee, tea, and other caffeinated drinks had an increased frequency of loose stools. Additionally, another study found that caffeine can act as a laxative and can worsen the symptoms of diarrhea. This is due to the fact that caffeine can stimulate the colon and cause it to move faster, thus increasing the frequency and loose consistency of your bowel movements.
Is Drinking Coffee Bad During Diarrhea?
The answer to this question is not a simple yes or no. It really depends on the individual. For some people, drinking coffee may worsen the symptoms and for others it can be helpful. Generally speaking, if you are having severe or prolonged symptoms of diarrhea, it is best to avoid caffeine until the symptoms subside.
However, if your symptoms are mild or moderate, it may be beneficial to drink coffee in moderation since it can provide a temporary energizing feeling. It is important to note, however, that coffee should not be used as a substitute for treatments such as over-the-counter medications that can help reduce diarrhea symptoms.
Alternatives to Coffee
If you have diarrhea and you do not want to drink coffee, there are plenty of alternatives that can help provide you with the same energizing feeling without worsening your symptoms. Some alternatives include herbal teas, such as ginger and peppermint, or natural energizing drinks such as coconut water. Additionally, drinking plenty of water is also beneficial in helping to re-hydrate the body and flush out the toxins that can worsen symptoms.
Should You See a Doctor If You Have Diarrhea?
It is best to visit your doctor if you are having severe or prolonged symptoms. Your doctor may recommend over-the-counter medications or other treatments to help reduce the symptoms. Additionally, your doctor may suggest dietary changes, such as avoiding certain foods that can worsen the symptoms.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is not recommended to drink coffee when you have diarrhea as it can worsen the symptoms. If you are looking for an energizing feeling, try some alternatives such as herbal teas or natural energy drinks. It is best to speak with your doctor or health care provider if you are experiencing persistent or severe symptoms.
