Bloating can be an annoying and troublesome symptom that can cause your waist to increase by a few inches. Bloating is not a common side effect of ingesting caffeine, unless you've overdosed on the substance, according to MedlinePlus. Caffeine is commonly acquired through certain beverages, which if served with milk, may result in bloating from lactose intolerance. Inform your doctor of your symptoms as soon as they develop for further instruction.
Caffeine Side Effects
Caffeine is sold as an over-the-counter medication to help your stay awake longer and increase your mental performance. Drugs.com warns that this medication is not intended for long-term use and does not replace sleep. The substance may also be found in certain pain relievers to increase the absorption rate of the medication. Caffeine is also ingested through eating and drinking certain foods, such as coffee, chocolate, tea and soda. Common side effects of caffeine include stomach upset, diarrhea, dizziness, vomiting, fast heartbeat, hyperglycemia, irritability, sleeplessness and tremors, according to MayoClinic.com.
Overdosing
A bloated belly may be a sign of caffeine overdose. Drugs.com states that it is not recommended to ingest more than 1,000 mg of caffeine within a 24-hour period. Caffeine is a drug that affects your central nervous system and can lead to death if taken in large quantities. The average 8-oz. cup of coffee contains about 133 mg of caffeine, while the average 8-oz. cup of tea contains about 53 mg. Overdosing on caffeine may occur if you're currently taking caffeine pills and you continue to consume caffeinated beverages and foods.
Lactose Intolerance
Many caffeinated beverages and foods, such as coffee, tea and chocolate may be made with milk. Milk contains a certain sugar called lactose that many people have difficulty digesting. If you're lactose intolerant, you may develop bloating, gas and diarrhea within a few minutes after ingesting a caffeinated product that is made with milk. Bloating from lactose intolerance may be prevented if you take a lactase digestive enzyme, use a lactose-free creamer or consume dairy-free products, according to the national Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse.
Considerations
Caffeine may aggravate your digestive system causing bloating, if you have certain underlying conditions. Inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's and irritable bowel syndrome are conditions that can lead to bloating after consuming caffeine. If you develop severe pain, excessive bloating or blood in your stool after ingesting caffeine, call your doctor right away.
Member Comments