Coffee Enemas Trend on Social Media: Doctors Warn of Serious Health Risks

A peculiar trend is brewing on social media, and it’s not your typical morning latte. People are turning their coffee rituals into something far more... invasive, with the rise of coffee enemas. Yes, you read that right—folks are using their brew in ways that would make even the boldest barista blush.

For the uninitiated, an enema involves injecting a solution into the rectum to stimulate bowel movements or for other medical purposes. In the case of coffee enemas, a mix of brewed, caffeinated coffee and water is introduced into the colon, held for about 10 to 15 minutes, and then expelled. The idea, rooted in alternative medicine like the Gerson therapy from the early 20th century, is that the coffee’s compounds will somehow trigger the liver to detoxify the body.

But let’s pour some cold water on this hot trend. Medical experts are sounding the alarm, emphasizing that there’s no scientific evidence to support claims of detoxification through coffee enemas. The liver and kidneys already handle the body’s cleansing needs quite efficiently, thank you very much. In fact, introducing hot coffee into sensitive areas can lead to serious risks, including burns, infections, and even caffeine overdose. Symptoms of the latter can range from anxiety and heart palpitations to, in extreme cases, seizures or worse.

While some enthusiasts report feeling energized or ‘lighter’ after the procedure, these anecdotes aren’t backed by clinical research. Nutritionists and gastroenterologists alike caution against this practice, especially for those with pre-existing conditions like gut disorders or heart issues. The consensus? Stick to sipping your coffee the old-fashioned way. If detoxification is your goal, experts suggest supporting your body’s natural processes with a diet rich in greens and herbs, not with a risky DIY procedure.

Traditional enemas, when medically necessary, should only be done under professional guidance. So, before you consider jumping on this bandwagon—or rather, this coffee pot—think twice. Your morning routine doesn’t need to be this extreme to perk you up.