Health · Medical Research · 1 hr ago
Study links regular coffee drinking to changes in gut function
A nine-day study of more than 60 adults found that regular coffee drinkers had changes in gut function.
Participants who drank one to five cups more than three days a week had higher acidity in the small intestine and more contractions in the colon.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen said colon contractions can support digestion and help prevent constipation.
They are not sure whether higher small-intestine acidity is helpful or harmful, or whether coffee alone caused the changes.
The findings also align with earlier research linking coffee to a more diverse mix of gut bacteria.
The researchers hope further work will show whether coffee's effects could help guide better treatments for constipation, which affects many adults.
More research is needed, including comparisons of gut function during periods of high coffee consumption and periods without coffee.
A study links regular coffee consumption with higher acidity in the small intestine and more contractions in the colon.
The study included more than 60 adults and was published on Tuesday.
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen said they do not yet know whether the higher acidity is beneficial or harmful.
The findings may help researchers explore new ways to treat constipation, but more research is needed.
- Who
- Researchers at the University of Copenhagen studied more than 60 adults.
- What
- The study found that regular coffee drinkers had higher small-intestine acidity and more colon contractions.
- When
- Published Tuesday, November 10, 2026.
- Where
- The University of Copenhagen conducted the research; the study participants’ location is not stated.
- Why
- Researchers examined how coffee affects gut function and whether the findings could help guide constipation treatments.
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- Participants
- More than 60 adults
- Coffee consumption
- 1–5 cups more than three days a week
- Study duration
- Nine days
- SmartPill users
- 50 participants
- Constipation prevalence
- 16 percent of adults and a third of people aged 60 and older
What people are saying
Contractions in the gut can support healthy digestion, help prevent constipation and keep the intestinal muscles in good condition,
For example, we already know from other studies that coffee can influence a range of processes in the digestive system, including acid secretion in the stomach. So there are good reasons to believe that what we are seeing is not merely coincidence,
A great many people struggle with constipation and irregular bowel movements. If we can understand how coffee affects digestion and intestinal contractions, it may be possible to use that knowledge to stimulate gut motility in a natural way,