For many people, drinking a cup of coffee can prompt a quick visit to the restroom. This occurs in about 30% of the global population and is considered a normal physiological response. The primary reason for this is the hormone gastrin, which is released in response to coffee consumption. Gastrin causes the muscles of the large intestine to contract vigorously, often leading to bowel movements within just four minutes of drinking coffee. This effect is observed regardless of the coffee's caffeine content. Additional factors that may contribute include the drink's acidity, any dairy products added, or simply its warmth. Moreover, for some individuals, coffee acts as both a laxative and a diuretic, the latter effect being due to its caffeine content.