This post has been updated since its initial publication date of 4/26/2023 to include more expert insight.
Waking up feeling bloated can certainly be a frustrating feeling, especially when you’re trying to start your day off on the right foot. While there are several factors that may lead to an uncomfortable morning bloat (including this dinner mistake), there are also many steps you can take to promote better digestion and find some relief. For example, adding anti-inflammatory ingredients to your diet is one great way to keep your digestive system healthy and avoid bloating—and luckily, there’s an easy way to do just that each morning. As it turns out, sprinkling some cinnamon and ginger into your coffee could be the solution you’re looking for.
To learn more about how adding cinnamon and ginger to your coffee can help keep morning bloat at bay, we spoke to dietitian Trista Best, nutritionist Mary Sabat, and registered nurse Lauren Thayer. Find all of their expert insight below.
READ MORE: What’s The Best Way To Drink Coffee For Weight Loss? We Asked A Doctor
Cinnamon To Relieve Bloating
If you're looking to relieve bloating, Best and Sabat say you can't go wrong with a little bit of cinnamon in your morning coffee. This is thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, which aid digestion and keep things moving so you can get rid of that gas and discomfort quickly.
"One of the best anti-inflammatory spices to add to coffee is cinnamon," Best says, noting that this spice "contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body."
Sabat echoes this statement: "Cinnamon contains anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce bloating by aiding in digestion," she tells us. These benefits stem from an antioxidant compound in the spice called cinnamaldehyde.
READ MORE: 2 Morning Beverages That May Lead To An Inflamed Stomach
Cinnamon as a natural sweetener
In addition to these anti-inflammatory properties that help you find relief from bloating, cinnamon works perfectly as a way to add a bit of sweetness to your morning joe without putting your health at risk. Adding too many harmful ingredients to your coffee, like refined sugar and high-sugar creamers (which you can learn about the risks of here) can take a serious toll on your health. Cinnamon, on the other hand, offers health benefits, making it a great alternative.
"It has a natural sweetness that can enhance the flavor of coffee without the need for added sugars or artificial sweeteners," Best says. Perfect!
She recommends adding cinnamon to your coffee by either sprinkling it on top of the grounds before brewing or stirring it into your finished cup.
Learn more about anti-inflammatory spices here.
Ginger
Ginger is a versatile spice known for its numerous health benefits, including its ability to aid in digestion and alleviate bloating. Adding ginger to coffee can be particularly helpful for those experiencing bloating after meals or due to digestive issues.
Ginger contains compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, meaning they can help reduce inflammation in the gut and relieve gas and bloating. When combined with coffee, ginger's soothing effects can promote a smoother digestive process, making it a beneficial addition to your morning routine for those looking to alleviate bloating and improve overall digestive comfort.
"Ginger is used for a variety of reasons as its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-ulcer properties offer up many health benefits," Thayer raves. "Research has shown that it can improve gastric motility, reduce intestinal cramping, gas, and bloating. Some even get great benefit from nausea and vomiting with the use of ginger."
To add ginger to your coffee, simply peel and thinly slice a small piece of fresh ginger root. Add the ginger slices directly to your coffee grounds before brewing. Once your coffee is brewed, you can either remove the ginger slices or leave them in for a stronger flavor. Add any desired sweeteners or milk, give it a stir, and enjoy your aromatic and soothing cup of ginger-infused coffee!
