Rejoice! We are one step closer to understanding coffee's magical ability to make you poo.
A video from the American Chemical Society's series 'Reactions', has explained why coffee affects 30% of people with its mystery laxative effect.
Scientists say there are more than 1,000 compounds that make up a cup of coffee, and they know it's one of these compounds that causes people to dash for the loo after drinking the stuff. But they're still not 100% certain which one it is.
One theory is that the acidic nature of the hot beverage has an effect on the stomach and causes it to release increased levels of gastric acid - which helps the body break down protein.
Coffee also contains chlorogenic acid, which increases stomach acid levels. The increased levels can result in your stomach moving its contents into your intestines more quickly than usual. In fact, according to the American Chemical Society, it's been proven that coffee effects the movement of the large intestines in four minutes, similar to the way a large meal does.
SEE ALSO:
This Is How Much Poo The World Produces In A Single Day (Spoiler Alert: It's S*** Loads)
What Does Your Poo Say About Your Health? Infographic Reveals How To Improve Your Stool
Scientists also know that the human body produces two hormones: cholecystokinin and gastrin, both of which help digest food.
The consumption of coffee has been known to increase the levels of these hormones, which enhances their general effects.
Cholecystokinin causes the release of digestive juices and bile which can help regulate the process of pooping, while gastrin is a hormone released to help get the colon moving by activating peristalsis (the relaxation and contraction of muscles that helps move poo out of your body).
The Best Iced Coffee Hacks
[H/T Laughing Squid]