Crohn's disease is an autoimmune disease that affects the gastrointestinal tract, sometimes hindering the digestive and excretory processes. Although there is no one diet that everyone with Crohn's disease should follow, certain foods commonly cause problems for people with Crohn's, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America. Caffeine is one substance that can cause unwanted side effects for Crohn's patients, according to CCFA.
Background
Crohn's disease can manifest in different ways, depending on which part of the gastrointestinal tract is infected and on the severity of the case. Symptoms may include chronic diarrhea, stomach pains, loss of appetite, weight loss, constipation, fatigue and pain when passing stool. Crohn's patients often have food sensitivities, such as lactose intolerance or difficulty digesting spicy foods or high-fiber foods, but not everyone with Crohn's has the same sensitivities. Caffeine commonly causes problems for people with Crohn's disease, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America.
Caffeine and the Body
Caffeine is a stimulant, which speeds up heart rate and is often consumed for its temporary energy boost and to help to improve alertness. Caffeine has a variety of side effects that can be problematic for people with Crohn's disease. Consuming caffeine produces a laxative effect in the body, and caffeine acts as a diuretic, which may trigger diarrhea and dehydration. Caffeine is also acidic, which can contribute to digestion problems and an upset stomach. When caffeine enters the body, it causes blood to be diverted from the stomach, which can upset digestion, according to the Health Central article "Crohn's and Caffeine."
Effects
Since caffeine produces a laxative effect on the body, Crohn's patients who already experience diarrhea may get more intense diarrhea. In addition, caffeine can trigger new bouts of diarrhea for people with Crohn's disease. People with Crohn's disease are already at an increased risk for dehydration, according to the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation of America, and drinking caffeine can drain even more fluids from the body. Caffeine's acidity can also upset the stomach and lead to cramps and stomach pain for people with Crohn's.
Considerations
Caffeine can produce more intense side effects for some Crohn's patients than others, with some people experiencing no negative side effects. Crohn's disease can change over time, so the effects of caffeine on your body may also change. You can work with your doctor to determine the best diet for you based on your particular Crohn's symptoms and sensitivities.
