Which coffee is best for IBS?

Choosing the right coffee can make all the difference for those with IBS. Discover how you can enjoy your cup of coffee without the discomfort.

 

 If you have Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), you might wonder whether that beloved cup of coffee is helping or hurting your symptoms. Coffee is a morning staple for many, but for people with IBS, it can be a double-edged sword. The effects of coffee on IBS vary from person to person, depending on the type of IBS you have and how your body reacts to caffeine and other compounds in coffee.

In this article, we’ll explore which types of coffee might be best for IBS, what to avoid, and how to enjoy your coffee without triggering uncomfortable symptoms.

Understanding the impact of coffee on IBS

Before diving into the types of coffee, it’s important to understand how coffee affects people with IBS. Coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant that can increase bowel movements by speeding up gut motility. For some, this might be beneficial, especially if you have constipation-predominant IBS (IBS-C). However, if you have diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D), coffee can worsen symptoms like abdominal pain and diarrhea.

Moreover, coffee stimulates the production of stomach acid, which can lead to heartburn and indigestion. It also contains compounds called salicylates, which can trigger IBS symptoms in sensitive individuals. So, how do you find the right balance?

Best types of coffee for IBS

1. Decaffeinated coffee: Decaffeinated coffee is often a good choice for people with IBS because it contains significantly less caffeine. This reduces the risk of triggering IBS symptoms related to caffeine intake, such as increased gut motility and stomach acid production. Decaf coffee allows you to enjoy the flavor and ritual of drinking coffee without as many side effects.
2. Cold brew coffee: Cold brew coffee is generally less acidic than hot brewed coffee, making it a gentler option for those with IBS. The lower acidity can help reduce the risk of heartburn and stomach upset, making it a more comfortable choice for coffee drinkers with IBS.
3. Low-acid coffee: Some brands offer low-acid coffee, which is specifically designed to be easier on the stomach. These coffees are roasted in a way that minimizes the acidity, making them less likely to trigger IBS symptoms. Low-acid coffee is a great option if you find that regular coffee upsets your stomach.

4. Organic coffee: Organic coffee is grown without pesticides, which can sometimes trigger IBS symptoms. Choosing organic coffee may help reduce your exposure to chemicals that could worsen your IBS. Additionally, some people with IBS may be sensitive to mold toxins that can be present in non-organic coffee, so organic might be a safer choice.  

 MDLA Wellness is a brand that’s taking coffee health to the next level. They’re working on making coffee even healthier by adding vitamins and superfoods to their blends. Alongside their existing coffee line, which includes options like Metabolism, Beauty, Collagen, Brain, and Sports coffee, MDLA Wellness will soon introduce an organic coffee and a low-acid coffee, specifically designed to be gentle on the stomach and beneficial for overall health.

 

Tips for coffee drinkers with IBS

• Monitor your caffeine intake: Keep track of how much caffeine you consume throughout the day. This includes not just coffee, but other sources of caffeine like tea, chocolate, and some medications. Reducing overall caffeine intake can help minimize IBS symptoms.

• Drink coffee with food: Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can increase stomach acid production and trigger IBS symptoms. Try to drink coffee with a meal to help buffer the effects of coffee on your digestive system.

• Consider an elimination diet: If you’re not sure whether coffee is triggering your IBS symptoms, consider an elimination diet. Remove coffee and other potential triggers from your diet for a few weeks, then slowly reintroduce them one by one to see how your body reacts.

• Listen to your body: Everyone’s body reacts differently to coffee. Pay attention to how you feel after drinking coffee and adjust your habits accordingly. Some people with IBS find that they can tolerate one cup of coffee a day, while others may need to avoid it altogether.

Conclusion

Finding the best coffee for IBS is all about understanding how your body responds to different types of coffee and caffeine levels. Decaffeinated coffee, cold brew, low-acid, and organic options are all worth trying if you want to enjoy your coffee without triggering IBS symptoms. Remember, the key is to listen to your body, monitor your symptoms, and make adjustments as needed. With the right approach, you can continue to enjoy your cup of coffee without the discomfort.

 

Sources:

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/ibs/ibs-and-coffee

2. https://www.wellandgood.com/coffee-ibs

3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drinking-coffee-may-prevent-irritable-bowel-syndrome-ibs