New Delhi: Coffee, which is a favorite way to start the day for most people, not only energizes the mind but is also proving beneficial for the stomach. Recently, a research conducted by scientists has revealed that coffee can help in providing relief from constipation.
One study found that people who regularly consumed more caffeine had 20 to 40 percent less constipation. The research involved more than 13,000 participants, and it was observed that people who drank 1 to 3 cups of coffee a day had more regular bowel movements, especially in the young and middle-aged.
Caffeine is a natural stimulant not only for the brain, but also for the digestive system. After drinking coffee, it increases activity in the large intestine, called peristalsis. This process helps in expelling the stool. Research also found that the effect of caffeinated coffee is greater than that of water or decaf coffee.
However, this effect was not seen in decaf coffee, which makes it clear that caffeine plays the main role in increasing stomach activity. Interestingly, this effect of coffee decreases with age. Digestion slows down in the elderly and their bodies process caffeine more slowly. Therefore, they should not depend only on coffee, but should also include fiber, water and light exercise in their daily routine.
According to experts, 1 to 2 cups of coffee a day is sufficient. It is best to drink it in the morning or after meals, as it activates the gastrocolic reflex, which prepares the body to naturally have a bowel movement. Along with this, it is better to drink water with coffee, avoid heavy cream or sugar and choose black or low-fat coffee.
Apart from caffeine, elements like polyphenols and chlorogenic acid present in coffee help in increasing the good bacteria in the intestines, which strengthens digestion and makes it easier to keep the stomach clean.
