Why Drinking Coffee Makes You Poop
Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, and for many, it’s the perfect way to start the day! But beyond its stimulating effect, coffee is also known to have a curious impact on our digestive system: it makes us poop. While this might seem like a minor quirk, understanding why […] The post Why Drinking Coffee Makes You Poop appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.
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Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, and for many, it’s the perfect way to start the day! But beyond its stimulating effect, coffee is also known to have a curious impact on our digestive system: it makes us poop. While this might seem like a minor quirk, understanding why coffee has this effect can reveal important insights into our digestive health and the benefits of maintaining regular bowel movements. So, why does coffee make you poop?
This article will explore the science behind coffee’s impact on our digestive system and why being “regular” is crucial for our overall well-being.
Why Does Coffee Makes You Poop?
It Activates the Body’s Digestive System and Healthy Waste Removal
When we sleep, our body’s natural functions, including digestion, slow down significantly. Upon waking, drinking a cup of coffee acts as a powerful stimulant that reactivates our digestive system. Research has shown that the effects of coffee can be felt in as little as four minutes after consumption, prompting the movement of food through the body and stimulating muscle contractions in the colon. This reactivation triggers a bowel movement, making coffee an effective and reliable way to get things moving in the morning.
Dr. Brisas Truncali, a Gastroenterologist at GI Alliance, says, “It certainly does not help or work for everyone, but a lot of people do find coffee helps them have a bowel movement. At the same time, you will also find people who will drink coffee and have diarrhea or urgency.
Stimulates Hormone Levels
Coffee’s ability to promote bowel movements isn’t just about stimulating the digestive muscles; it’s also connected to certain hormones in the body. One key hormone that coffee affects is Cholecystokinin (CCK). CCK is released after eating and plays a critical role in digestion by stimulating bile production, which helps break down fats. It also helps move food through the digestive tract, eventually making its way towards the colon.
Another hormone influenced by coffee is gastrin. Gastrin is responsible for enabling the production of gastric acid, which is necessary for the digestive process. When coffee increases gastrin levels, it also stimulates the gastrocolic reflex. This reflex, which is most active in the morning, is triggered by the stomach stretching as we consume food or drink. It causes the colon to contract more frequently, sending waste toward the rectum and triggering a bowel movement.
The combined effect of these hormones and reflexes explains why coffee drinkers often feel the need to visit the bathroom shortly after their morning cup. And it’s not just with caffeine; even drinking one cup of decaffeinated coffee, which contains only 2 mg of caffeine (compared to 95 mg in a cup of regular), can produce a similar effect, though to a lesser degree.
Additives In Your Coffee
Not all coffee drinkers experience the same level of digestive stimulation, as various factors can influence how coffee affects the body.
Dairy Products and (Artificial) Sweeteners. Additives like creamer or certain sweeteners can alter how coffee interacts with your digestive system. For instance, those sensitive to dairy and who use it in their coffee may experience a stronger laxative effect between the two components. Certain artificial sweeteners that contain polyols can also cause GI symptoms such as gas and diarrhea, especially those who consume them in larger amounts.
Hot vs. Iced. In terms of the temperature of your coffee, hot beverages may be superior to iced when it comes to stimulating bowel movements. While there is insufficient evidence to support coffee specifically, researchers have found that drinking warm water can promote better gut motility. Following a three-day study, researchers found that drinking 500cc of warm water upon waking resulted in constipation relief for 56% of participants on the first day, 76% on the second, and 80% on the third.
Regular vs. Decaf. Additionally, the type of coffee consumed (and the amount of caffeine consumed) can make a difference—those who drink regular over decaf have a 23% stronger effect on the colonic muscle. Decaffeinated coffee, while milder, can still stimulate bowel movements due to other compounds present in the brew. Those more sensitive to caffeine may also experience stronger effects, whereas regular coffee drinkers may need a larger quantity to achieve the same result. Truncali states that it is “not uncommon for people to say coffee or caffeine will cause diarrhea, strong urgency to have a bowel movement, or cramping with a bowel movement. TOO much certainly can lead to diarrhea. Diarrhea can also be a symptom of caffeine overload or overdose.”
Surprising Benefits of Pooping Regularly
Bowel Movement schedules can vary from person to person. For the average individual, a healthy pooping schedule can range from three times per day to once every three days. Regular bowel movements are more than just a sign that your digestive system is functioning properly—they offer several health benefits.
Prevents Certain Health Conditions
Pooping on a regular basis can reduce the risk of developing certain conditions in the body, such as constipation, hemorrhoids, IBS, and other digestive issues. These conditions can be uncomfortable and even lead to more severe health issues if left untreated.
Maintains a Healthy Immune System
Seventy percent of our immune system is held within the digestive tract, so maintaining a healthy gut (like having a healthy bowel movement schedule) can help your immune system stay strong. A strong immune system can also keep us more resilient against infections and illnesses.
It Releases Endorphins
Interestingly, the act of pooping itself can release endorphins, the body’s natural “feel-good” hormones. This release can improve mood, increase energy levels, and reduce stress and anxiety. Truncali adds that for some, simply knowing that they are having regular bowel movements is beneficial for both physical and mental well-being.
Prevents Bloating
Regular bowel movements can help prevent bloating by eliminating unnecessary waste and reducing gas buildup. They can also help prevent constipation and maintain a balanced gut microbiome, which altogether keeps you from feeling bloated and uncomfortable. For the ultimate de-bloat, try HUM’s FLATTER ME digestive enzyme.
The Coffee Pooping Takeaway…
While coffee has long been praised for its ability to get us moving in the morning and power through our day, using it for regular bowel movements comes with significant health benefits. Stimulating the digestive system and hormone levels through coffee can ensure regular bowel movements, which is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or just looking for a way to stay “regular,” understanding how coffee affects your body can help you create a healthy schedule that works for you and enables you to maintain good digestive health.
The post Why Drinking Coffee Makes You Poop appeared first on HUM Nutrition Blog.
