Coffee is a saviour to some people, especially in the mornings. But how much is too much? Most studies suggest that a daily intake of fours cups is a safe amount. However, some people find that coffee does not agree with them and plays up with their digestive and/or nervous system. The caffeine in coffee is a gastrointestinal stimulant meaning you may need to go to the toilet more urgently than normal. For some people, their systems can cope, but this is not always the case. Coffee containing caffeine can cause symptoms of IBS such as bloating, diarrhea or constipation. If you are experiencing any of these systems try to cut down. The other side effect many people can have with coffee is increased anxiety.  Caffeine side effects can be very similar to anxiety.  Caffeine doesn’t directly cause anxiety, but it can make symptoms worse. So if you already suffer from anxiety or are having an extra anxious morning, it is best to avoid coffee. So is decaf an alternative? Does it really have no caffeine? Well, according to studies it is not completely caffeine-free. While the decaffeination process removes at least 97% of caffeine, virtually all decaf coffees still contain around 7 mg per 8-ounce. However, Decaf coffee is still a popular alternative for those looking to cut their caffeine intake. If you suffer from any of the above, but you love the taste of coffee then decaf could be your perfect solution. It is particularly perfect if you feel like a cup in the afternoon or evening as it shouldn't keep you awake!