Written by Dr. Brandon Rieders, Gastroenterologist
For many of us, coffee is a cherished daily ritual. It helps us wake up, feel alert, and even “get things moving.” But for others, coffee can bring on less-welcome effects like bloating, gas, or abdominal discomfort. So what’s the truth—does coffee cause bloating? The answer depends on your individual digestive response, but there are several mechanisms that can explain why your favorite brew might be affecting your gut.
Why Coffee May Cause Bloating
1. Stimulation of Gastric Acid
Coffee—especially on an empty stomach—can increase stomach acid production. For some people, this leads to indigestion, reflux, and a feeling of bloating. A study in Gut found that coffee increases gastrin release, which stimulates acid secretion and can sometimes irritate the stomach lining.
2. Increased GI Motility
Coffee is a known stimulant for the colon. It can speed up intestinal contractions and even promote the urge to have a bowel movement. While this can be helpful for some, in others, it can create spasms or cramping that feel like bloating.
3. Additives and Artificial Sweeteners
It’s often not just the coffee—it’s what’s in it. Flavored syrups, artificial sweeteners (like sorbitol or sucralose), and dairy additives can all contribute to gas and bloating. Lactose, for example, is a common trigger for people with lactose intolerance.
4. Caffeine and the Stress Response
Caffeine can increase cortisol and adrenaline levels, both of which impact the gut-brain axis. For people with stress-sensitive guts or mild gut dysregulation, this hormonal response can alter digestion and trigger bloating.
5. Gut Sensitivity and Acidity
For people with existing gut sensitivity, such as functional dyspepsia or mild motility issues, coffee’s acidity and stimulant properties can exacerbate bloating and discomfort.
How to Enjoy Coffee Without the Bloat
- Don’t Drink on an Empty Stomach: Pair coffee with a meal or snack to buffer its acidic effects.
- Cut Out Triggers: Try black coffee or use plant-based milks without gums or sweeteners.
- Limit Quantity: Too much caffeine can overwhelm your system—stick to 1–2 cups per day.
- Mind Your Gut Timing: If coffee triggers urgency or bloating, shift it later in the morning after your body has had time to wake up.
- Support Digestion With Happitum™: Happitum includes ginger, peppermint, digestive enzymes, and fennel seed—all known to support smoother digestion and relieve post-coffee bloating. Take it with your biggest meal or anytime your stomach needs a little extra support.
When to Check In With Your Doctor
If bloating or digestive distress becomes a regular part of your coffee routine—despite adjusting your habits—it could point to an underlying sensitivity or motility issue worth investigating.
References
- Boekema, P.J., et al. (1999). “The effect of coffee on gastric motility and orocecal transit time.” Gut, 45(2), 217–221.
- Brown, S.R., et al. (2005). “The effect of coffee and tea on bowel function.” Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 22(3), 223–228.
- Choi, J.S., et al. (2013). “Effects of caffeine on the gastrointestinal tract: A review.” Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, 19(3), 236–241.
- Martinsen, T.C., et al. (2005). “The role of pepsin and other proteolytic enzymes in the development of gastrointestinal disorders.” Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology, 40(10), 887–893.
- Zhu, Y., et al. (2017). “Peppermint oil and functional gastrointestinal disorders.” Digestive Diseases and Sciences, 62(4), 944–951.