Drinking coffee is often experienced as something of a ritual, with many coffee house paths crisscrossing the streets around the world. But for some, coffee isn’t just a guilty pleasure – it’s often accompanied by the uncomfortable and embarrassing side effect of diarrhoea.
So why does coffee cause diarrhoea in some people? The answers are in the nature of coffee itself, or rather, in its components. Coffee does contain several potential sources of diarrhoea. First there’s caffeine, which can lead to a sudden rush to the bathroom, as it’s a stimulant of the intestinal muscles, quickening digestion without increasing the absorption of water from the intestines. The second component is fat, which can cause loose stools in people with a high fat diet and lower levels of lipase — an enzyme that assists with fat digestion. The third component is dairy, which contains lactose — a sugar which is often difficult to absorb. When these three components are combined in the form of coffee, it’s not hard to see why it could lead to diarrhoea.
But that’s not the only explanation. According to some experts, the supposed diarrhoea-causing effect of coffee can also be linked to other lifestyle factors as well. Stress can cause diarrhoea in some people, and it’s well known that the increased caffeine consumption that sometimes accompanies stress can contribute to the problem. Other factors like poor diet, dehydration or even physical inactivity might also play a role.
In other cases, coffee might be the symptom not the cause. Diarrhoea caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or lactose intolerance, though annoying and embarrassing, is often not caused by drinking coffee itself, but instead by the presence of other food intolerances in one’s diet. And, in rare cases, the diarrhoea can be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as Crohn’s disease or colitis, or even a gastrointestinal infection.
It’s not an exact science, but it appears that in many cases, the cause of coffee-induced diarrhoea lies in the individual’s digestive system. As such, it is important to understand one’s own digestive system, as well as its triggers. If diarrhoea is an issue, it may be best to look for the cause elsewhere in one’s diet rather than simply laying the blame on the coffee itself.
Knowing what is causing the diarrhoea is the first step to managing it. It is generally best to avoid its common triggers. For instance, those who find that caffeine causes diarrhoea should try to avoid it. To do this, they should opt for decaffeinated coffee, or switch to a different type of beverage, such as herbal tea or a smoothie. If dairy is the cause, they should choose dairy-free options, such as oat milk, almond milk, or soya milk.
Those with IBS or lactose intolerance, who experience frequent bouts of diarrhoea, should consider making some lifestyle changes. For instance, getting plenty of physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress levels can all help to reduce IBS symptoms. Additionally, a person with IBS should be mindful of their triggers, such as certain foods that can increase the symptoms.
FinaIly, for those whose diarrhoea is caused by an underlying medical condition, it is recommended to talk to a doctor about your symptoms in order to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
General Dietary Changes To Consider
Making some small, general dietary changes can be beneficial when it comes to avoiding coffee-induced diarrhoea. Eating smaller meals, more frequently throughout the day, can help keep energy levels and digestive systems running smoothly. Furthermore, staying hydrated and consuming fiber-rich foods will also help to reduce the risk of diarrhoea.
Additionally, it’s important to bear in mind that coffee is not the only beverage that can cause diarrhoea. As mentioned, other caffeinated drinks such as energy drinks can have a similar effect. Alcoholic beverages, especially spirits, can also have a laxative effect on some people. As such, it can be useful to limit your intake of these beverages, or at least to be aware of how they affect your body.
If you are still having diarrhoea after making these changes, it might be worth looking into alternative drink options, such as herbal tea or an electrolyte drink. These are not only great replacements for coffee, but also effective at relieving the symptoms of diarrhoea.
Alternative Treatments
In some cases, diarrhoea can be managed with medication. Over-the-counter antidiarrhoeal products can be used to treat symptoms such as loose stools, abdominal cramps and increased gas. It is important to note, however,that these products should not be used for more than two days in succession, as prolonged usage can cause side effects. Additionally, it is recommended to speak to a doctor before using such medications, especially if the diarrhoea is persistent.
Alternatively, some natural remedies can also be helpful for managing diarrhoea. Ginger, for example, is known to help reduce nausea and has anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, probiotics are a beneficial supplement as they help to restore good bacteria in the gut, leading to improved digestion and less frequent bouts of diarrhoea.
Changes In Lifestyle Habits
Lifestyle habits can often be the root cause of diarrhoea, so it is important to make the necessary changes in order to reduce its occurrence. Try to develop a regular sleep schedule, reduce stress, and avoid eating late at night, as this can all help to reduce IBS symptoms as well as the possibility of experiencing coffee-related diarrhoea.
Additionally, some people may find that avoiding large meals – or spread out their meals over the course of the day – is beneficial for reducing the effects of diarrhoea. Slow down when eating, and relax after meals. Do not rush back into your routine quickly – take the time to enjoy the meal, digest properly and stay hydrated.
Conclusion
Coffee-related diarrhoea is a common issue for many. In order to reduce the symptom, it is important to look for the cause and make any necessary lifestyle or dietary changes. Speak to your doctor or a nutritionist for tailored advice. Above all, do not simply blame the coffee – it could be the symptom and not the cause.
