Is Coffee bad for you?
Over the years we’ve been told countless myths about coffee – it’s dehydrating, it causes cancer – to name a few. However, we have good news for coffee lovers: these myths have recently been debunked! According to the World Health Organization (WHO), coffee has been officially removed from the list of potentially cancer-causing beverages. It is also not associated with dehydrating effects.
In fact, coffee is packed with antioxidants – studies have shown that it may have a protective effect against cancers of the liver and colon, as well as protective benefits from cirrhosis, Parkinson ’s, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans determines that moderate coffee consumption (3-5 cups a day) is not associated with the development of major chronic diseases. Just be careful to avoid beverages with high amounts of added sweeteners and creamers and choose items like Epicured’s Cold Brew with Almond Milk (only 130 calories).
Benefits of Caffeine in Coffee
For some people, the caffeine in coffee has a mild laxative effect on the bowels which helps us go to the bathroom. This can be positive if you have IBS with constipation. Caffeine can also stimulate the kidneys, causing you to think that you are urinating much more than you should. According to dietary guidelines for managing IBS, people should be assessed for their caffeine tolerance – it is suggested to limit intake to 400 mg per day in adults. As a note, the average amount of caffeine in one 8oz cup of coffee brewed at home is 95mg. However, coffee chains can have as high as 475mg in a serving (serving size may be as large as 20 oz). It is also worth noting that many foods and other beverages contain caffeine such as sports drinks, chocolate, ice cream, iced teas and even over the counter analgesics. For those that have identified caffeine as a trigger, but enjoy the flavor of coffee and tea, simply opt for the decaf versions or try a combination of water and decaf tea (peppermint, rooibos, white and a weak green or chai tea) infused with low FODMAP fruits.
Resources that can help you:
Mount Sinai Make an appointment at the Feinstein IBD Clinical Center here or contact the office at 212.241.8100.
Epicured For exceptional low FODMAP, IBD-friendly prepared meals delivered right to your door, visit our menu.
PURCHASE Our Cold Brew with Almond Milk!
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DISCLAIMER: Mount Sinai is an investor in Epicured. This material is for informational purposes only, and Mount Sinai makes no representation or guarantee as to any results or experience with Epicured. You should consult with your physician before using a dietary program such as Epicured. Mount Sinai employees do not receive material benefit from endorsing or recommending Epicured.
Laura Manning is not employed by Epicured. Laura is a full-time employee of the Mount Sinai Health System and receives no compensation, monetary or otherwise, from Epicured.
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