In a new study, researchers have confirmed that a cup of coffee can help prevent constipation.
The study, which involved more than 12,000 people, found that just 100 milligrams of caffeine (which is the equivalent of one cup of coffee) reduced the risk of constipation by about 20 percent.
However, if you consume more than 204 milligrams of caffeine per day (which is the equivalent of two cups of coffee), it can have negative effects.
Scientists found that each additional cup of coffee after the 100-milligram limit increases the risk of constipation by six percent.
The most likely reason for this is because caffeine has diuretic properties, meaning it increases the need for urination and causes dehydration, which is a major cause of constipation.
However, this was not seen in people over 60 years of age, as higher caffeine consumption in this age group was associated with a reduced risk of constipation.
