There is some confusion about coffee helping with constipation, so after extensive research this is what I have uncovered.
Coffee is a diuretic, which means that your need to pass urine will increase when you drink it. And if you don’t replace this loss of fluid from your body (with water), you will find yourself in a state of dehydration. And dehydration is a cause of constipation.
So does coffee cause constipation or does it help cure the problem?
Well, a report by Manitoba Health, which is a government agency in Canada states that “having a cup of coffee with a meal may help stimulate your bowels”.
Caffeine simulates the effects of a laxative by stimulating peristalsis, which are the contractions of the colon (digestive tract) which push food through your system. In other words, caffeine triggers this action further than normal and reducing the effect of constipation.
However, although caffeine triggers this reaction, you must also consider a report by the National Institute of Health, which states that “People who have problems with constipation should try to drink liquids every day. However, liquids that contain caffeine, such as coffee and cola drinks will worsen one’s symptoms by causing dehydration… It is important to drink fluids that hydrate the body, especially when consuming caffeine containing drinks or alcoholic beverages”.
In my opinion, common sense should prevail when approaching this subject. If you are constipated, first make sure you are hydrated by consuming the daily amount of water. Next, drink a cup of coffee to stimulate peristalsis. (please note that you should not take this as being professional advice on this subject, I am just an enthusiast not a doctor or medical expert. You should always consult your doctor with health issues of any kind, including constipation.)
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