As we have discussed in previous blogs, coffee has many health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties and reduces the risk of many diseases. But did you know coffee is also connected to gut health? A common myth about coffee is that coffee is bad for the gut, lets dive into this further.
Defining Gut Health
Let's start by defining gut health. Gut health covers the health of the entire digestive system, which helps break down food. By improving your gut health, microbiomes are built up in the gut (home to health bacteria), helping to protect against infections and produce the nutrients the body needs to function healthily.
Gut Health and Mental Health
This is a huge benefit to the body as it improves immunity, helps manage weight, improves mood, leads to better sleep, and promotes healthier bones. Interestingly, coffee consumption can enhance mood and energy by stimulating the production of dopamine and serotonin in the brain. Some research has also shown that an increase in gut microbiomes can produce and modulate neurotransmitters, demonstrating that there is a positive connection between gut health and well-being.
Gut Health and Inflammation
Some studies have shown that coffee has anti-inflammatory properties, which helps decrease inflammation in the body and are beneficial to the lining of the gut. This is because coffee has been shown to increase beneficial bacteria strains, like Bifidobacteria, which helps improve the gut microbiome. These microbiomes enhance the gut barrier function, modulate the immune system, and produce essential vitamins.
When Coffee Might Not be the Answer
However, if you struggle with IBS, reflux, heartburn, or a weak gut lining, coffee may cause more trouble than it's worth. Before drinking coffee, it may be best to heal your gut so it's not irritated by coffee. It's important to bear in mind that everyone reacts differently to coffee. This is because the acidity of coffee may not align with the acidity in the stomach when one struggles with IBS or reflux. Generally, if your gut health is good, coffee would be very beneficial in terms of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidants. A recommended amount of coffee is 2-3 cups of coffee a day.
Speciality Coffee and it's Impact
For the best outcomes, it's important to choose coffee that is organic to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals that can affect the gut. This is why we choose Speciality Coffee, as it goes through a more stringent monitoring process, minimising the use of harmful chemical, pesticide exposure, and reducing the risk of mould developing. As organic coffee is much gentler on the stomach, it can reduce the irritation on the stomach causing acid reflux and IBS symptoms with all the benefits of coffee.
Reference:
- Coffee and Gut Health: The Truth About Your Daily Brew's Biome Benefits, written by Erik Abramowitz (February 22, 2024)
- The Surprising Connection Between Coffee and Gut Health, written by Dr. Michael Ruscio ( August 19, 2021)
- 6 Surprising Health Benefits of a Healthy Gut Microbiome, written by Sharon Walker (July 14, 2021)