A Brief Background
Coffee is well known to be one of the most popular beverages in the world. It has been around for centuries and continues to be a much-loved addiction. While it offers several health benefits, it is possible to have too much coffee and it can also have some adverse effects. It is important to drink coffee responsibly and to be aware of its potential dangers. That being said, it is also important to consider whether one should drink coffee when they have the flu.
The Risks Of Drinking Coffee When You Have The Flu
Coffee is made up of several compounds which include caffeine, a stimulant, and other antioxidants. When consumed in small amounts, it can provide several health benefits such as reducing fatigue, enhancing cognitive performance and improving alertness. However, drinking coffee when you have the flu can put you at risk of a number of side effects. Consuming too much caffeine, for example,can cause insomnia, jitteriness and nausea, none of which will be beneficial for you if you have the flu. Studies have also shown that drinking too much coffee when you are sick may also worsen your symptoms, particularly if you have a fever or a high fever.
The Benefits Of Drinking Coffee When You Have The Flu
At the same time, there is some evidence to suggest that there could be some benefits to drinking coffee when you have the flu. A small study conducted in 2014 found that caffeine helped alleviate the symptoms of the flu in some cases. Furthermore, a second small study showed that drinking coffee could also reduce the duration of the flu. Ultimately, it is important to note that while there may be some potential benefits to drinking coffee while you have the flu, it is not recommended as a remedy or treatment.
Potential Health Benefits And Risks With Drinking Coffee
When consumed in moderation, coffee can actually provide many health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants and it can help reduce inflammation and improve cognitive performance. It can also help reduce the risk of certain types of cardiac diseases, stroke and Parkinson’s disease. On the other hand, excessive consumption of coffee can put you at risk of an anxiety disorder, an increased heart rate and high cholesterol.
Alternative Beverages To Consider
If you are feeling under the weather, it is worth considering alternative beverages that may be more beneficial for you. These can include decaf green tea, herbal tea, smoothies and hot water with lemon. Drinking plenty of fluids helps to prevent dehydration and can help relieve your symptoms.
Tips To Follow When Consuming Coffee When Sick
If you are considering drinking coffee when you have the flu, there are a few tips you should be aware of. Firstly, you should limit your caffeine intake to 200mg or less per day and stick to light or moderate roasts rather than dark roasting and avoid adding sugar. Secondly, you should drink plenty of fluids alongside your coffee and make sure to drink something nutritious such as a smoothie or hot water with lemon. Thirdly, if you experience any discomfort or adverse effects, it is important to stop drinking coffee or reduce your intake.
Advice From Experts
Most experts agree that drinking coffee when you have the flu is not advisable, even if you are feeling exhausted. While there may be some potential benefits, it is important to take into account the potential risks. It may be better to opt for alternative beverages such as decaf green tea or herbal tea. It is also important to listen to your body and rest when necessary. If you experience any adverse effects, make sure to seek medical advice as soon as possible.
An Analysis Of The Evidence
The available evidence is limited and most of it is inconclusive. There have been a small number of studies that suggest that drinking coffee when you have the flu may have some benefits. However, it is important to take these studies with a grain of salt as the effects of coffee when you are sick may vary from person to person. Furthermore, the potential risks should not be overlooked.
The Takeaway
In conclusion, coffee should not be consumed when you have the flu, as it may exacerbate your symptoms. While it can provide some potential benefits, the risks of drinking coffee when you have the flu likely outweigh the potential benefits. It is important to listen to your body and take into account the potential risks before consuming coffee when you are sick.
