When people are asked why they poop when they drink coffee, their initial reaction is often one of surprise. Most individuals don’t make the connection between drinking coffee and having a bowel movement, but the truth is that coffee has a powerful effect on the digestive system. It is believed that the caffeine in coffee can act as both a stimulant and relaxant on the digestive tract muscles, leading to an increase in the urge to defecate. Additionally, coffee has an effect on the hormones that regulate intestinal motility, which contributes to the urge to poop after drinking coffee.
The links between coffee and pooping are a popular topic of conversation for medical professionals. According to Dr. Steven R. Goldstein, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at New York University, “Caffeine is a stimulant of the smooth muscle of your digestive tract. It’s like giving your gut a little kick in the pants, so it will produce a bowel movement more quickly.” Dr. Allen Stewart, gastroenterologist at Vanderbilt University agrees, further noting that “Caffeine relaxes a ring of muscle at the end of your esophagus, which can make you burp and possibly allow some stomach fluid to enter your esophagus, leading to heartburn.”
Most people who drink coffee are familiar with the uncomfortable feeling of needing to poop shortly after having a cup of joe. However, it is important to note that the urge to go usually passes quickly, although it may be uncomfortable while it lasts. Dr. Lawrence B. Cohen, author of “Eat, Drink, and Be Healthy”, suggests that the connection “may or may not be real for all people, but if you drink a small, single cup of coffee and then have an urge to go, you may not be alone.”
Ultimately, why you poop when you drink coffee is an individual experience that is unique to each person. Some individuals find that they have an urge to go after drinking coffee, while others don’t experience anything at all. Additionally, there are a variety of factors that can contribute to the urge to defecate, such as the type of coffee, the amount consumed, and the individual’s general health. Therefore, it is important to recognize that everyone’s experience with coffee and pooping may be different and it is best to experiment and try different things to find out what works best for you.
Reading the Label of Packaged Coffee Can Help
For individuals who experience an urge to poop after drinking coffee, there may be a way to reduce the effect. Reading the labels of packaged coffee can provide insight into what is inside the product. When reading the label, look for additives such as sugar, artificial sweetener, and creamer, as these ingredients can have an effect on digestion and can increase the likelihood of having a bowel movement after drinking. Additionally, if drinking flavored coffee, look at the ingredients list to ensure the flavorings are natural and not chemically processed.
In general, choosing coffee with fewer additives can help reduce the urge to poop. For those who like the taste of coffees with additives, such as cream and sugar, consider reducing the amount used, as this can lead to a decrease in the urge to poop. Additionally, consuming smaller amounts of coffee can also help, such as opting for a single espresso over a larger cup of coffee.
Further, consuming coffee with food can also help reduce the urge to poop. Eating solid foods like protein-based meals can help slow down the digestion of coffee, which can reduce the likelihood of a bowel movement after drinking.
Does Type of Coffee Affect the Urge to Defecate?
When it comes to pooping after drinking coffee, the type of coffee consumed can also make a difference. According to Isabel Maples, a dietitian at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, “Coffee with a higher caffeine content is more likely to result in a stronger urge to defecate.” While straightforward, this advice can be counter intuitive, as many people turn to naturally creamy and sweet espresso drinks, cappuccinos, and lattes in an attempt to mask their coffee breath and reduce the urge to go.
Although decaffeinated coffee is available, coffee experts recommend sticking to regular coffee instead, as the low-acid drinks are not as enjoyable to drink and can contain odd additives such as synthetic sugars and fats. If drinking decaffeinated coffee, be sure to read the label to ensure it is effectively removing the caffeine and that it does not contain any other ingredients that could lead to additional issues.
Changing Drinking Habits
For individuals who experience an urge to poop after drinking coffee, one way to lessen the effect is to change their coffee drinking habits. For instance, someone who drinks multiple cups of coffee throughout the day can try reducing the amount they consume to just one or two instead. Additionally, drinking coffee in the morning instead of the afternoon can help, as coffee comes with an extra burst of energy and alertness which can be beneficial in the morning.
It is also important to look at the source of the coffee. Freshly brewed coffee generally does not contain additives, but pre-brewed coffee may contain additional ingredients such as creamers and sweeteners which can lead to pooping. When consuming pre-brewed coffee, look for brands that have fewer additives and opt for naturally flavored coffee whenever possible.
Pooping After Coffee is Normal
At the end of the day, pooping after drinking coffee is a common occurrence for many individuals and does not necessarily indicate that something is wrong. While uncomfortable, the urge to defecate generally passes quickly and is not usually cause for worry. However, if someone experiences persistent discomfort after drinking coffee, it is recommended to speak to a medical professional.
Taking Supplements With Coffee
For individuals who are looking for an extra boost of energy, taking supplements with coffee can be an effective way to get the desired effect. Many people report feeling energetic and productive after taking an energy boosting supplement, such as caffeine or guarana, with their coffee. However, it is important to note that taking too many supplements with coffee can have an adverse effect, leading to an intense urge to defecate. Therefore, it is important to regulate the amount of supplements taken and to experiment to find a level of supplementation that works best for the individual.
Side Effects From Drinking Too Much Coffee
Although extremely common, it is important to note that drinking too much coffee can lead to additional side-effects beyond an urge to defecate. For instance, consuming too much coffee can lead to a range of adverse reactions, such as jitters, headaches, and insomnia. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to how much coffee is being consumed and to stop once the desired effect has been achieved.
Be Mindful of Caffeine Intake
Ultimately, it is important to be mindful of caffeine intake when drinking coffee. While many individuals rely on coffee as a morning pick-me-up or afternoon energy boost, excessive amounts of caffeine can lead to an array of discomfort. Therefore, it is important to regulate the amount of coffee consumed and to pay attention to the individual’s body and how it responds to each cup of coffee. As always, it is best to speak to a medical professional if there are any concerns.
