Harvard Doctor Shares Morning Coffee Recipe That Can Improve Your Gut Health

Coffee is not just a popular recreational drink, it is also a preferred morning starter for many. There are many people who cannot start their day without a cup of coffee. Recently, a Harvard doctor shared a hack that can make your coffee even more healthier and gut-friendly. Sounds the perfect way to begin your day, isn’t it? If you want to know more about the coffee recipe, keep reading.

To get an expert view on whether coffee can actually improve your gut health or not, we reached out to Deepali Sharma, Clinical Nutritionist at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi. Let’s take a look.

Harvard Doctor Shares Gut-friendly Coffee Recipe

Dr Saurabh Sethi, California-based gastroenterologist trained in AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, recently shared a coffee recipe. He stated that this recipe can boost the benefits of your morning cup manifold and can help fight inflammation. Taking to Instagram, on December 9, Dr Sethi shared detailed steps to prepare the coffee.

Let’s take a look at the recipe he shared:

 

 

 

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A post shared by Saurabh Sethi MD MPH | Gastroenterologist (@doctor.sethi)

Step 1: Prepare some freshly brewed black coffee. And as we know, coffee is rich in antioxidants and an excellent substance to counter inflammation.

Step 2: Add a splash of dairy milk or almond or soy milk (if you are lactose intolerant). Dr Sethi mentioned that this step is optional.

Step 3: Add a pinch of cinnamon to the coffee. It can help balance blood sugar and reduce inflammation.

Step 4: Add a little cocoa powder. “It is loaded with polyphenols that feed your good guy bacteria and support brain health,” stated the doctor.

Step 5: “Finish with a teaspoon of MCT oil,” the expert said in the clip and added, “It gives you clean energy, supports focus, and can even help beneficial microbes thrive.”

The full form of MCT is medium-chain triglycerides. It is present in processed concentrated products used in recipes, and is naturally found in ingredients like coconut oil, palm kernel oil, whole milk, and butter.

Also Read: Study Shows Coffee Consumption May Slow Down Cellular Ageing – Expert Decodes

Can Coffee Improve Your Gut Health?

Now, let us try and understand whether coffee is actually good for your gut health or not. “Yes, coffee can actually support gut health when consumed in moderation. Research shows that coffee stimulates the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, helps promote bowel movements, and contains polyphenols, natural plant compounds that act as prebiotics. These compounds nourish the good microbes in your digestive system, contributing to a healthier microbiome. For many people, coffee also helps regulate digestion by gently stimulating intestinal movement,” explains Sharma.

But can coffee give you gut issues? “Yes, for some individuals, coffee can cause gut discomfort. Its acidity and caffeine content may irritate the stomach lining, worsen acid reflux, or trigger loose stools. People with IBS, gastritis, or high gut sensitivity may notice bloating, cramps, or urgency after drinking coffee. Hydration, moderation, and paying attention to how your body reacts can help identify your tolerance level,” shares the expert.

Is It Advisable To Start Your Day With Coffee?

Many people love starting their day with coffee, but is it a good move? Our expert explains.

“Having coffee first thing in the morning is fine for most healthy adults. However, drinking it on an empty stomach may increase acidity or trigger heartburn in people who are sensitive. A small snack like fruit, nuts, or a light breakfast before your morning cup can help reduce acidity and keep your blood sugar stable. If you tolerate coffee well, starting your day with a cup is generally safe,” shares Sharma.

On this note, let us tell you whether coffee has anti-inflammatory properties or not. “Yes, coffee is naturally rich in antioxidants like polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation in the body. Studies also show that regular coffee drinkers tend to have lower levels of inflammatory markers. These antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Just remember, adding too much sugar or artificial creamers can counter these benefits,” adds the expert.

Can You Make Your Coffee Gut-friendly?

Sharma shares that you can make your coffee much gentler on your stomach. On this note, the expert adds a gut-friendly coffee recipe:

• 1 cup brewed coffee (preferably medium roast or cold brew for lower acidity.
• 1 tsp ghee or coconut oil (supports digestion and reduces acidity).
•  ½ cup warm oat milk or almond milk.
•  A pinch of cinnamon (anti-inflammatory and helps blood sugar control).
• Optional: 1 tsp honey or jaggery.
• Blend or mix well for a creamy, soothing cup that’s easier on digestion.

Also Read: Is Your Morning Coffee Making Your Cortisol Spike? Here's How To Find Out

The Final Word

Coffee can support gut health when consumed in moderation. There are certain coffee recipes that can boost the benefits of your morning cup manifold and can help fight inflammation as well. Coffee is naturally rich in antioxidants like polyphenols, which help reduce inflammation in the body. Studies also show that regular coffee drinkers tend to have lower levels of inflammatory markers.