From the Guidelines
Caffeine is not recommended for patients with a jejunostomy due to its potential to increase intestinal motility and worsen symptoms. The most recent and highest quality study, 1, suggests limiting the oral intake of low sodium solutions, including coffee, to reduce output in patients with a high output jejunostomy. This is supported by another study, 1, which recommends restricting the use of oral hypotonic drinks, such as tea and coffee, in patients with a jejunostomy to prevent sodium loss from the gut.
Key Considerations
- Caffeine can stimulate acid production and increase intestinal motility, potentially worsening symptoms in patients with jejunal disorders
- Patients with a jejunostomy should be encouraged to drink a glucose–saline replacement solution (with a sodium concentration of 90 mmol/l or more) instead of caffeine-containing products
- It is essential to pay attention to sodium, potassium, and magnesium balance in patients with a jejunostomy, as significant losses of these electrolytes can occur
Recommendations
- Avoid caffeine-containing products, such as coffee, tea, energy drinks, and certain sodas
- Opt for soothing, non-caffeinated beverages like herbal teas (chamomile, ginger), water, or electrolyte solutions
- Consult with a gastroenterologist to provide personalized dietary recommendations and appropriate medical treatment for specific conditions.
From the Research
Effect of Caffeine on the Jejunum or in Patients with a Jejunostomy
- There are no research papers provided that directly investigate the effect of caffeine on the jejunum (small intestine) or in patients with a jejunostomy.
- The available studies focus on the effects of caffeine on exercise performance 2, cardiovascular diseases 3, blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease and diabetes mellitus 4, mechanisms of action on the central nervous system 5, and the relationship between coffee consumption and hypertension and cardiovascular diseases 6.
- None of these studies provide information on the specific effects of caffeine on the jejunum or in patients with a jejunostomy, and therefore, no conclusions can be drawn on this topic based on the provided evidence.