Coffee and digestion: who benefits and why timing matters

Caffeine can stimulate gut motility and help some people digest after meals, but it can worsen digestion for those with irritable bowel syndrome. Regular coffee intake is linked to a healthier gut microbiome and polyphenols, though caffeine's long half-life can disrupt sleep, which harms gut health. Experts advise caffeinated coffee before noon and switching to decaf or herbal tea later in the day.