Beneficial properties of coffee for the digestive system revealed, doctor says

Coffee affects the functioning of the intestines through several mechanisms and due to its rich composition. This popular beverage can help with constipation, fight liver fibrosis, and restore intestinal microbiota.

As reported by BAKU.WS, first category gastroenterologist and nutritionist Nuria Dianova told "Gazeta.Ru" about this.

"Caffeine is one of the main active components of coffee that affects intestinal function. On one hand, it can increase intestinal motor activity, which promotes faster movement of food through the digestive tract. This can be beneficial for people with constipation, and for those with accompanying lactase deficiency, coffee with milk becomes a daily ritual. On the other hand, it stimulates the production of gastric juice, which can improve digestion, but can also cause discomfort in people with increased acidity or gastritis, especially if coffee is consumed on an empty stomach," the doctor explained.

Antioxidants contained in coffee can reduce inflammation in the intestines, which is especially valuable for patients with inflammatory diseases such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis in remission. Notably, moderate coffee consumption in compensated liver cirrhosis contributes to the reversal of fibrosis in liver tissues.

"Chlorogenic acids in coffee also provide some effects. First, chlorogenic acids can slow down glucose absorption in the intestines, which can be useful for controlling blood sugar levels. Second, some studies show that chlorogenic acids can promote the growth of gut microbiota. Another component of coffee - dihydroxyphenylalanine (DOPA) - can promote bile secretion, which is important for fat digestion and absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, as well as the growth of certain types of bacteria that positively affect intestinal health," the doctor concluded.