Coffee is probably one of the most popular beverages in the world and drinking it is often thought to be helpful in relieving constipation. Despite being a globally popular drink there is still surprisingly little research on the potential implications of coffee and constipation. Quite a few studies have looked into the effects of certain constituents in coffee like caffeine on the GI system. The underlying process for constipation, however, is complex and has not been sufficiently studied yet.
The main argument for drinking coffee as a remedy for constipation is that caffeine boosts gut motility, therefore helping the process of digestion. Caffeine content in coffee is mainly determined by the way it is prepared – typically brewed coffee contains 103-200 mg of caffeine per cup. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, making it the primary stimulant ingredient for relieving constipation. The amount of caffeine required for a positive effect on constipation varies from person to person. Too much caffeine can weaken the bowels, deleting any of its positive effects.
In terms of nutritional value, coffee is packed with several useful molecules, however, not a single scientific study has proved any connection between drinking coffee and improved GI health – other than caffeine, that is. Coffee may also contain acids, carbohydrates, and some beneficial minerals like calcium and magnesium, which may help in alleviating constipation. Yet, the largest molecule in coffee is water, which also helps to soften the stool and ease the digestive track.
When it comes to constipation, digestion can easily be affected by various things such as different diets, stress, medical conditions and the medications taken to treat them. Overall, if drinking coffee can help with constipation it is not yet scientifically recognized but people drink it anyway. Cautiousness must be exercised when it comes to adding anything to your diet and especially towards beverages, as they can quickly become addictive and thus affect a wide variety of physiological and mental processes.
That said, as far as coffee’s potential effects on constipation, the jury is still out. While, theoretically, it may help to soften the stool and provide a certain amount of stimulation to the gut, there is not sufficient evidence to support these effects. Coffee drinking should always be done in moderation and with an awareness of individual dietary needs.
Caffeine in Coffee
Caffeine content in coffee can vary quite a bit depending on the kind and way it is prepared. Generally, its content is between 103-200 mg per cup. This dose of caffeine is usually relatively low compared to other caffeinated products. Since coffee is popular, some people drink it to get a temporary boost in energy or attention. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant and as such it can have an impact on gut motility, hence why people drink it in hope of relieving constipation.
Nutrition Facts of Coffee
Coffee contains several molecules that have potential in aiding the digestion of food, like caffeine, acids, carbohydrates, and minerals like calcium and magnesium. Beyond that, being mostly water, coffee often helps to soften the stool by providing more liquid to the intestine. However, none of these molecules nor the drink in its entirety have been properly studied to positively influence digestion.
Additional Considerations
When choosing what to drink, digestibility of a beverage should be one of the main considerations. As previously mentioned, digestion can be affected by various things such diet, stress, medications and existing medical conditions. Moderate drinking of coffee may be helpful for some people but it is recommended to always consider any personal dietary needs and consult a doctor in case of any health issues.
Factors Beyond Just Coffee
It is important to differentiate between drinking coffee as an occasional or occasional activity and habitual behavior. While moderate drinking is thought to be beneficial for some, people develop coffee addictions quite quickly too. This can make them consume more caffeine than they should and put their health at risk. Additionally, the effects of the drink – good or bad – may be more pronounced in those who are under stress or suffer from certain medical conditions.
Coffee’s Influence On Constipation
The jury is still out on coffee’s influence on constipation. Many anecdotal reports favour the drink but no scientific evidence has been gathered so far to suggest it has any influence on digestion. Coffee can provide additional liquid to help with the softening of the stool and its caffeine content can be beneficial in providing stimulation to the gut. The importance of individual dietary needs and following the advice of a health professional must be taken into consideration in any case.
