What has the research so far shown? Because not all sufferers benefit.
Irritable bowel syndrome, a chronic disorder of the gastrointestinal system, significantly affects the daily life of patients, as it causes sensitivity of the gastrointestinal tract and contraction of the intestinal muscles.
The syndrome is very common. Estimated to break on average 11% of adults, mostly young people and women. “Spastic colitis,” as it was formerly known, causes many symptoms in patients, including:
- Abdominal pain
- Inflation
- Cramps
- Constipation and/or diarrhea
Often accompanied and from violent flatulence. But at least its development does not increase the long-term risk of developing more serious problems, such as colon cancer, says clinical dietitian Eumenis P. Karafyllidis, director of the Department of Nutrition at Metropolitan General Hospital.
A new combined study
According to a recent pooled analysis (meta-analysis) of previous studies, regular coffee consumption may help prevent its development or relieve symptoms in some patients.
A meta-analysis Published in the food journal Nutrients in late 2023. It included eight previous studies with a total of 432,022 participants.
Coffee drinkers were 16% less likely to develop irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) than non-coffee drinkers. This is true for those who regularly drink any amount of coffee.
A complex drink
Previous studies on the topic have had conflicting results, the researchers said. In other words, there were indications that coffee had a harmful effect on irritable bowel syndrome. The researchers say these contradictions may be due to the complexity of coffee.
In particular, coffee contains more than 100 compounds that can vary significantly depending on its origin, roasting method, and preparation method. All these parameters are not always considered in all studies.
In addition, the connection between coffee and the syndrome is also related to its bioactive molecules, since it is a drink rich in bioactive substances, such as:
- Polyphenols
- Diterpenes
- Trigonella
- Melanoidins
These substances have antioxidant, anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory properties. They also affect intestinal microflora, bile acids, intestinal motility and intestinal permeability.
These properties could potentially have a beneficial effect on irritable bowel syndrome, says Mr. Karafillides.
Gastroenterologist Dr. Babak Firoozi, who was not involved in the meta-analysis but was asked to comment on its findings, said that “three of the eight studies included in the meta-analysis showed that coffee promotes irritable bowel syndrome. But all three were in sync. Cross-sectional studies only identify correlations and cannot prove causation between the parameters investigated.’
Because not everyone benefits
So why doesn’t coffee benefit everyone’s gut health? Coffee can sometimes upset digestion and can be a strong laxative due to the bioactive compounds it contains.
“Not only caffeine, but also other molecules in coffee promote bowel movements by increasing intestinal transit. Thus, coffee may not be beneficial in some patients with a syndrome whose main symptom is diarrhea. It can actually make symptoms worse,” explains Mr Karafillidis.
However, coffee also benefits other people with digestive problems. At least one cup of coffee per day is recommended for patients with fatty liver disease, as coffee reduces fibrosis in the liver and prevents gallstone formation.
“Overall, the available evidence suggests a possible protective effect of coffee on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We know that coffee consumption is safe at permitted and established levels and may have benefits for gut health, which should be further studied in large prospective cohort studies,” concluded Mr. Karafillidis