Why People Drink Coke During Diarrhea: A Medical Perspective
Coke (cola drinks) should actually be avoided during diarrhea because the caffeine content can worsen symptoms, though the underlying rationale of using glucose-containing beverages for hydration has some merit if caffeine-free alternatives are chosen instead. 1
The Misconception Explained
People often reach for Coke during diarrhea based on a partial truth that has been misapplied:
What Guidelines Actually Recommend
- Glucose-containing drinks ARE recommended for maintaining adequate fluid intake during diarrhea, as they help with electrolyte absorption 1, 2
- The American College of Gastroenterology specifically endorses drinks containing glucose (such as lemonades, sweet sodas, or fruit juices) or electrolyte-rich soups for hydration 1, 2
- This recommendation is based on the physiological principle that glucose enhances sodium and water absorption in the intestine 1
Why Coke Specifically Is Problematic
However, cola drinks contain caffeine, which should be avoided during diarrhea. 1
- Guidelines explicitly state that "fatty, heavy, spicy or stimulant foods (caffeine, also included in cola drinks) are best avoided" 1
- The European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases recommends that "spices and beverages such as coffee and alcohol should be avoided" 1
- Caffeine acts as a stimulant that can potentially worsen gastrointestinal motility and exacerbate diarrhea 1, 3
Better Alternatives
Instead of Coke, choose caffeine-free glucose-containing beverages:
- Caffeine-free lemonades or clear sodas 1
- Fruit juices 1
- Electrolyte-rich soups 1, 2
- Formal oral rehydration solutions (though not strictly necessary for otherwise healthy adults) 1
The Bottom Line
The folk wisdom of drinking Coke for diarrhea likely stems from the correct principle that glucose-containing fluids help with hydration, but the specific choice of cola is misguided due to its caffeine content. The practice persists because the glucose does provide some benefit, but patients would fare better with caffeine-free alternatives. 1, 2