Some research indicates that coffee may lower the risk of developing ulcerative colitis (UC). However, it may also trigger symptoms in people with this condition. More research into the relationship is necessary.

UC is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that leads to inflammation and ulcers developing on the inner lining of the large intestines. People with the condition may have several symptoms of varying severity that may come and go.

Scientists do not yet know the exact cause of UC. Coffee may be a trigger for UC symptoms in some people, but others may have different triggers.

This article discusses whether coffee can cause UC or trigger flare-ups. It also discusses how a person with UC can reduce the effects of coffee, alternatives to coffee, and more.

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Scientists do not believe that coffee causes UC. Coffee may instead lower the risk of developing UC in some people. However, the exact reason for this is unclear.

A 2020 study found no link between drinking coffee and UC risk.

The authors of a 2023 review explain that coffee has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects on the gut. This may reduce the risk of developing UC.

A 2022 review looked at the effects of coffee on several gastrointestinal conditions, including UC. It concluded that most studies, but not all, found no link between coffee and the development of UC. Coffee might play a protective role against UC, but this might also be due to other factors.

Researchers also investigated links between caffeine, coffee, and UC in a 2023 case-control study in Japan. They concluded that drinking more caffeine decreased a person’s UC risk. However, they noted that coffee consumption is generally lower in Japan than in Western countries.

Caffeinated coffee is a common trigger beverage. It may trigger flare-ups for some people with UC, but not for others. Each person with UC may have different foods or beverages that trigger flare-ups.

In a 2022 review, scientists investigated research into how coffee affected UC symptoms. They found that some but not all people with UC avoid coffee, as it worsens their symptoms. Other people with UC drink coffee with no negative effects.

Not drinking coffee or switching to decaffeinated coffee may help remove the side effects of consuming caffeinated drinks.

However, some people with UC may still be able to drink coffee in moderation. Keeping a food diary may help a person to track which foods and drinks trigger or worsen their symptoms. If coffee is a trigger, they may be able to reduce side effects by reducing their intake.

People may also find that adding cream, sugar, or other syrups to coffee may be a trigger. If this is the case, drinking coffee without them may help.

Teas and green teas can be alternatives to coffee for a person with UC. Green tea has antioxidant properties that may help reduce UC inflammation.

However, tea can contain caffeine, which may be a UC trigger. Noting drinks they consume in a food diary and monitoring any changes in symptoms can help people determine a suitable alternative.

People with UC may be at an increased risk of dehydration. It is important they ensure they drink plenty of water and other fluids to stay hydrated.

Can you drink coffee with ulcerative colitis?

People with UC can drink coffee. However, some alternatives may be more suitable if coffee seems to trigger or worsen UC symptoms.

Can a person drink decaf coffee with ulcerative colitis?

Because caffeine can be a trigger for some people with UC, decaf coffee may be a better option. However, sugars and syrups in decaf coffee beverages may also affect people’s symptoms.

Can coffee cause intestinal inflammation?

Scientists believe coffee may help reduce intestinal inflammation. It may have an anti-inflammatory effect on a person’s gut.

What drinks should you avoid with ulcerative colitis?

Drinks that may trigger UC symptoms include those containing alcohol or caffeine and those sweetened with sugar. These can include energy drinks, soda, and juices.

Some people may find that coffee and other caffeinated drinks can trigger or worsen their symptoms of ulcerative colitis (UC).

Multiple studies and reviews have looked into the effect of coffee on UC. Although the exact reason is unclear, many researchers believe coffee may have a protective effect against the development of UC. Coffee may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

However, coffee and caffeine may be a trigger for some people with UC. In these cases, avoiding coffee, drinking it in moderation, or switching to decaffeinated coffee may help a person manage the condition.