Tea and coffee are the two most popular beverages globally, consumed by a wide section of people to kickstart their day and boost energy. However, while they provide a temporary energy surge, they can also have a negative impact on digestive health, particularly for those with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), exacerbating symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain and altered bowel habits. Thus, these beverages might be more of a trigger than a treat.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Dr. Sharad Malhotra, Senior Consultant & Director, Gastroenterology, Hepatology & Therapeutic Endoscopy, Aakash Healthcare explained how tea and coffee can trigger irritable bowel syndrome.

What is IBS?

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel habits—either diarrhoea (IBS-D), constipation (IBS-C) or a mix of both (IBS-M).

The Coffee Connection

“Caffeine is a known stimulant of the gastrointestinal tract,” according to the doctor.

For IBS patients, particularly those with diarrhoea-predominant IBS, coffee can trigger cramps, urgency and loose stools due to its effect on intestinal motility. Additionally, coffee is acidic and often consumed with milk or sugar, which can further irritate sensitive guts. Even decaffeinated coffee isn't always safe, Dr. warns: “Decaf coffee still contains gut-stimulating compounds that may cause discomfort in sensitive individuals.”

Tea: Friend or Foe?

While tea is generally gentler than coffee, it depends on the type of tea and the individual's tolerance. According to Dr. Sharad Malhotra, “Black and green tea does contain caffeine, albeit in smaller amounts, and may cause symptoms in IBS patients with caffeine sensitivity.” On the other hand, some herbal teas can be beneficial. “Peppermint, ginger and fennel teas have antispasmodic and soothing effects on the gut. They may help reduce bloating and relieve cramps,” she adds.

However, teas containing high-FODMAP ingredients (like chicory root, liquorice, or artificial sweeteners) can aggravate symptoms.

Tips To Manage IBS

-Limit caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day.
-Switch to herbal, non-caffeinated teas like peppermint or chamomile.
-Avoid artificial sweeteners, dairy, and additives in your beverages.
-Maintain a food and symptom diary to identify personal triggers.
-Consult a specialist for a custom low-FODMAP diet plan.

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