Interestingly, this effect seems to impact women more than men.
Studies show that, compared to water, caffeinated coffeeincreases colon contractions by 60%2.
This means that coffee literally gets things moving in your large intestine.
Summary
Does every pop in of coffee do it?
Its clear that caffeinated coffee has a strong impact on your bowels, but what about decaf?
And can coffee additives and the temperature of coffee impact your gut as well?
Compared to decaf, caffeinated coffee has a23% greater impact1on colon contractions.
But decaf coffee also contains poop-stimulating compounds.
Does what you add to your coffee make a difference?
Some sugar alternatives can also cause GI symptoms.
Sugar alcohols likesorbitol6are poorly absorbed by the large intestine.
“Thewarm temperature of the liquid9may stimulate motility,” integrative gastroenterologistMarvin Singh, M.D.previously told mindbodygreen.
(FYI,hot coffee11is usually served at temps between 160 and 185 degrees Fahrenheit.)
Is it ever unhealthy to poop after drinking coffee?
While some people welcome the stimulating effects coffee has on their bowels, coffee doesnt sit well with everyone.
If you cant poop without coffee, consider making an appointment with your healthcare provider.
Coffee alternatives to try
Frequently Asked Questions
Is coffee a natural laxative?
Both caffeinated and decaf coffee have laxative effects.
It stimulates the muscles in your large intestine, which promotes the urge to poop.
Does coffee or espresso make you poop more?
How do I stop coffee from making me poop?
The takeaway
For many of us, coffee can trigger the urge to run to the bathroom.
Fortunately, there are plenty ofcoffee alternativesto choose from, many of which also offer impressive health benefits.
