For busy people, starting the day right is very crucial and most of the time they do it with a dose of hot coffee in the morning. While making a quick read of the day’s top news, it feels soothing and energizing to sip your favorite coffee blend before getting to work. Everything is supposed to go well except if something goes wrong with your stomach after drinking coffee.
Coffee is more than just a liquid for waking up your soul for the day. Instead, it can do a lot more and that includes having an effect on your bowel movement. As a career woman, this drink has made me keep up with my duties and never miss a thing. However, it also makes me worry that after finishing one cup, I’d run and look for the nearest toilet to get it done.
Is it a laxative? Can coffee cause constipation? Well, read on to find out more.
What is Constipation
The average number of “toilet moments” that we can have in a week may vary from person to person but to have it less than three times is what constipation means. The longer it takes you to release it, the harder it will be once the feeling takes over. Also, you are constipated if:
- You released dry and hard stools
- You feel pain when releasing them and the stools were hard to pass
- You did not fully empty inside after
Causes of Constipation
Various factors may be observed to check if you are experiencing constipation. Here are some of the common ones:
- Dehydration
- Stress
- Not enough exercise
- Changes in eating and regular routine
- Ignoring the urge to go
Can Coffee Cause Constipation?
Coffee, on the other hand, is said to be helpful in stimulating the muscles in the digestive system of our body. Webmed.com also added that such a beverage makes those muscles contract which leads to bowel movements. Yet, according to the same source, the caffeine that coffee contains also causes dehydration which might also contribute to a person’s constipation. If you really want to drink coffee while you’re constipated, choose the decaffeinated type.
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How to Prevent or Treat Constipation
Constipation is a normal case for each and every one of us. So, to help you avoid experiencing this condition, here is a list of the possible ways to try:
- Drink enough water
- Drink less of caffeinated beverages such as alcohol to prevent dehydration
- Eat vegetables, fruits, whole grain, and high in fiber types of foods
- Avoid eating foods that you know can make you constipated
- Do not bring anything with you when trying to move your bowels such as cellphones or newspapers
- If you can, have some supplemental fiber to what you eat
Conclusion
As they say, anything too much is always bad for us. Whether they are for our health, career, or family, it is always important to set our limits. The right dose of coffee can be helpful to our body. Find that balance in the amount of coffee you drink and how often you have to “go” so your health will also be in good condition at all times.
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