These “Feel-Good” Drinks May Secretly Be Messing With Your Digestion (Image Credits: iStock)
From that comforting cup of coffee in the morning to a fizzy drink to unwind after a long day, beverages are a daily ritual for many of us. Whether you're chasing energy or just seeking comfort, your favourite drinks can be instant mood boosters. But what if those very beverages are quietly sabotaging your gut health?
Experts explain that your gut isn’t just responsible for digestion—it plays a crucial role in your overall well-being, influencing everything from immunity to mental health. The gut-brain axis, for instance, shows how closely connected our digestive system is to our emotional state. That jittery feeling from too much caffeine or the bloated discomfort after a sugary soda? That’s your gut trying to tell you something.
Dr Mamina Turegano, a dermatologist based in Louisiana, recently took to Instagram to break down how some of our most-loved drinks may be doing more harm than good to our digestive system. Her post explains how the beverages we consume without a second thought could be damaging the delicate balance of our gut microbiome.
Here are the everyday drinks Dr Turegano flagged as potentially harmful to gut health:
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Coffee: While it's a must-have for millions, coffee can worsen or even trigger acid reflux. The caffeine relaxes the lower oesophagal muscles, making it easier for stomach acid to rise—a common culprit behind heartburn and indigestion.
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Energy Drinks: These popular 'pick-me-ups' often contain excessive caffeine and a mix of artificial sweeteners or high sugar content. One sweetener in particular, sucralose, has been shown to harm the beneficial bacteria in your gut, disrupting its natural balance.
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Carbonated Beverages: The beloved fizz in sodas and energy drinks might be satisfying to sip, but that carbonation can worsen bloating—especially for those already dealing with digestive issues.
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Whey Protein Drinks: Though they offer a convenient protein boost, these drinks may not suit everyone. In some individuals, they can cause digestive discomfort and have even been linked to worsening skin conditions like acne.
The key takeaway? You don't need to completely give up your favourite drinks—but moderation is essential. Dr Turegano stresses that being mindful of how much and how often you consume these beverages can make a noticeable difference in your gut health.
So what should you be drinking instead?
Here are some gut-friendly drinks that support digestion and keep your gut bacteria happy:
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Kombucha: This fermented tea is rich in probiotics, which help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria.
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Kefir: A fermented milk drink packed with probiotics and nutrients that support digestion and strengthen immunity.
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Ginger Tea: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger tea soothes the digestive tract and helps reduce bloating.
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Peppermint Tea: Excellent for relieving indigestion and relaxing the muscles of the gastrointestinal system.
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Aloe Vera Juice: When consumed in moderation, it can soothe the stomach lining and support better bowel movement.
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Bone Broth: Full of collagen and amino acids, it helps repair the gut lining and supports overall digestive health.
Next time you reach for that second cup of coffee or crack open an energy drink, consider how it might be affecting your gut. A few simple swaps could go a long way toward better digestion—and better overall health.
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