Regular coffee drinking linked to changes in gut motility and microbiome
A University of Copenhagen study published in 'Gut Microbiology' found regular coffee consumption affects digestive system functioning and gut microbiome diversity.
The research team used a small electronic capsule to track changes in the digestive systems of participants. The capsule measured indicators including gastrointestinal transit time, temperature, acidity levels and intestinal contractions.
Study findings
The study divided 61 healthy Danish adults into two groups based on coffee consumption. Those drinking one to five cups daily on more than three of eight days showed greater diversity in intestinal microorganisms compared to less frequent coffee drinkers.
Regular coffee consumption seems to affect the physiology of the intestines.
Digestive effects
Regular coffee drinkers had significantly lower acidity levels in the small intestine and more colon contractions, which help push contents through the digestive system and prevent constipation.
Bucci noted these contractions support proper digestion, reduce constipation and maintain intestinal muscle function. However, researchers cannot yet determine if the reduced acidity benefits health or has negative effects.
Causation not established
The researchers stress the study cannot prove coffee directly causes these digestive changes. Roager believes previous research showing coffee affects stomach acid secretion supports the possibility of coffee's role in these changes.
The team plans to conduct further studies controlling coffee intake amounts rather than just observing consumption habits. This would help establish causation and understand coffee's mechanisms affecting bowel movements and contractions.
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