Brewing Business

Ever felt the need to poop after drinking a cup of joe? Here’s why.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel
Ever felt the need to poop after drinking a cup of joe? Here’s why.
Corbis/Click Photos.
Corbis/Click Photos.

Clark Gable may not laugh till he’s had his coffee, but we may not poop till we’ve had ours. According to the American Chemical Society, our favourite morning beverage can prompt the stomach to release an increased level of gastric acid. This then stimulates movement in the digestive system and creates the need to defecate. The speedy effect can take place in just four minutes and it’s more common amongst women than men.

But don’t fret if you’ve never felt it before, as it only happens to three in 10 people. Looking for a way around it? Opting for decaf is not the answer. The acidic nature of coffee is what causes the effect, which means the level of caffeine is not the key. So if you’re one of the lucky ones, we say it’s probably wiser to embrace this quirky phenomenon.