Morning coffee dilemma: Why your cup may send you rushing

Some people can simply start their day after drinking coffee, but others find that their favorite drink triggers an urgent need to find the nearest bathroom. Sometimes it stimulates the intestines, and other times it increases bladder pressure. Many of us experience this without understanding why it happens.

Almost one in three people feel the need to use the bathroom just a few minutes after drinking coffee. This phenomenon has several causes, one of which is coffee's impact on gastrin levels and digestive processes. Coffee stimulates the digestive tract. It encourages the secretion of gastrin and hydrochloric acid, which can lead to increased bowel activity and stimulate movement. That's why coffee can have a laxative effect.

Additionally, drinking a warm liquid, such as coffee, may itself stimulate bowel movements by increasing the activity of rectal muscles. This effect also contributes to the need to visit the bathroom after drinking coffee.

Problems may also arise with coffee brewed from grains. It's not just caffeine that accounts for the laxative effect, but also the fact that it's consumed hot.

It might seem that the laxative properties of coffee could be helpful for dealing with constipation. In the short term, it may provide relief, but it's not advisable for long-term use. The caffeine in coffee can worsen bowel movement problems for some people due to its dehydrating effect. Regular coffee consumption may paradoxically lead to dehydration, exacerbating constipation issues.

If you suffer from chronic constipation, using coffee as a remedy is not recommended. Instead, focus on a proper diet rich in fiber, regular physical activity, and drinking an adequate amount of water.