Coffee and IBS

Most of us drink coffee, often several cups a day. It’s actually beneficial, but how does it affect the stomach? Coffee perks you up, provides comfort, and breaks up a dull afternoon at the desk. Since coffee contains a variety of substances, it impacts the body in different ways. It is said to protect against a range of diseases and generally appears to be healthy in moderation. The question is how it affects the stomach and whether coffee and IBS are compatible. Coffee contains both caffeine and oligosaccharides (FODMAP), as it comes from coffee beans. Therefore, it affects the stomach in some way for most people.

Do you prefer drinking tea? There are options for tea drinkers as well!

Keep the right cup

Coffee increases gut motility, which can be both beneficial and problematic depending on your digestive system. For those with a slower digestive system, morning coffee might stimulate bowel movements, so keeping that cup could be beneficial. However, for those with a faster digestive system, it might be wise to significantly reduce coffee consumption. Simple strategies include drinking half a cup at a time, using a smaller cup, or taking just a small sip and then setting the cup aside.

Limit coffee during the elimination phase

We recommend a maximum of one cup of coffee (250 ml) per day during the elimination phase, and then you can experiment to find what works for you. If you drink a lot of coffee, don’t cut it out completely all at once, as this could lead to withdrawal symptoms like headaches and nausea. Start from where you are now and gradually reduce your intake. You’ll soon find the amount that works best for your stomach. There are small differences between various types of coffee. Therefore, the limitation applies to espresso, instant coffee, brewed coffee, and decaffeinated coffee, as all contain oligosaccharides. It’s fine to use lactose-free milk in your coffee, but avoid soy milk since it is high-FODMAP.

Belly Balance digital treatment

In the Belly Balance app, you can log symptoms, keep a food diary, scan products, find FODMAP lists, and much more to help you manage your IBS.

Sofia Antonsson
Reg. Dietitian, Belly Balance

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