Health impacts of coffee consumption on digestion and stress

Coffee consumption can impact both digestive health and stress levels through caffeine and milk content. Regarding digestion, coffee stimulates stomach acid and intestinal motility, which may cause heartburn or urgency in some individuals. The addition of milk introduces lactose, proteins, and fats; for those with low lactase production, lactose can lead to bloating, gas, cramps, and diarrhea. The severity of these digestive effects often depends on the volume of milk, with a macchiato containing less lactose than a large cappuccino or a standard latte.

In terms of mental and physiological stress, caffeine can increase cortisol, the hormone associated with the stress response. This effect is particularly pronounced in the morning when natural cortisol levels are already rising. Excessive or prolonged increases in cortisol, along with caffeine-induced symptoms like rapid heartbeat, nervousness, and insomnia, may contribute to broader health concerns. Experts suggest delaying the first cup of coffee later in the day or switching to decaffeinated options to mitigate these effects.