Trying to limit or give up coffee can lead to constipation, Sandra Vigelene, a nutritionist and global nutrition expert at VIA College at Aarhus University in Denmark, told HealthNews.
The expert explained that coffee is known for its ability to stimulate colon movements, causing an urgent need to go to the toilet almost immediately after consumption. In addition to stimulating intestinal contractions, this drink affects the nervous mechanisms and hormones of the gastrointestinal tract, which are also involved in the process of defecation.
Vigelienė added that people who frequently drink caffeinated beverages can develop both a physical and psychological dependence on them. For this reason, suddenly stopping their consumption can cause “withdrawal symptoms” such as constipation.
The nutritionist recommends that people who want to reduce their coffee consumption should not do so too abruptly. At the first stages of diet correction, it is better to gradually replace coffee with regular tea or matcha (a powdered green version of the drink). It is also important to maintain a drinking regimen and pay attention to physical activity – such habits help improve digestion.
