Why Does Coffee Upset Your Stomach?

Coffee is primarily composed of caffeine, and while it can make you much more alert and active, it can also affect your digestive system. While caffeine is known to be a potent mental stimulant in persons, studies have also revealed that it can increase the frequency of contractions throughout your digestive tract. This article explains why coffee can be a contributing factor to your stomach upset.

Reasons Why Coffee Upsets Your Stomach

There are several reasons why your steamy coffee could give you an upset stomach. They include the following:

Caffeine

Caffeine is a major component of coffee and the natural stimulant present in your coffee makes you stay awake and alert. A single 8-ounce cup of coffee, when examined, should contain a total of 95mg of caffeine, and this caffeine is known to increase the frequency of contractions in your digestive tract. Caffeine can also increase the production of stomach acid, which can significantly result in bloating, belching, and general discomfort in the digestive tract.

Coffee acids

Although caffeine might be one major reason for your stomach upset, other factors like coffee acids can also be a contributing factor. Typically, coffee contains a lot of acids like chlorogenic acid which has been discovered to increase the production of stomach acids. Studies have shown some connections between the production of these acids, and stomach upset in people. Sensitivity to these acids can also contribute to their effect on your body system.

Additives

Any added substance in your coffee could also be the reason why your stomach hurts so much. Coffee is made of other components also, like milk, sugar, cream, sweeteners and any of these could cause your stomach upset. Individuals who are lactose intolerant would automatically get a stomach upset from taking coffee mixed with milk. Additionally, if you're allergic to any of the substances used to make your coffee, it is expected that your gastrointestinal tract responds in some unusual ways. Allergic reactions are usually followed by a series of reactions like stomach upset, constipation, diarrhea, and other symptoms. Identifying your allergens and making sure they are not brewed with your coffee can help you avoid a stomach upset.

Conclusion

Coffee has several components that can upset your stomach, such as coffee acids, additives, and caffeine. If you find out that the upset is a little too frequent, then you should find possible solutions like staying away from it till you find out what exact component is responsible for your stomach upset.

FAQs:

How can I settle my stomach after drinking coffee?

Ways to settle your stomach after drinking coffee include taking it with food, avoiding regular milk or additives, and reducing additives in your coffee.

Why does my stomach feel sick after drinking coffee?

Reasons, why your stomach might feel sick after drinking coffee, is the presence of caffeine, additives, or coffee acids.

Why is coffee suddenly giving me diarrhea?

Digestive problems and stomach aches from the components of your coffee can be accompanied by some other related symptoms. Some of them include constipation, diarrhea, and nausea.

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