Coffee is one of the most popular drinks around the world, with many people drinking coffee daily for a burst of energy, for health benefits, or just to enjoy the taste. While coffee can offer a lot of advantages, it can also have many drawbacks too.
Medical professionals point out that drinking coffee can lead to caffeine addiction, increased bodily stress and dehydration. According to Dr Maria Robinson, professor of nutrition and dietetics at the University of Washington, excess amounts of coffee can disrupt sleep, which can have an adverse effect on both mental and physical health. Further, drinking coffee can elevate blood pressure and its stimulant effects can cause a rise in heart rate.
Coffee May Result in Acid Reflux Symptoms
Coffee beans contain caffeine and other compounds that can irritate digestion and lead to acid reflux. This is especially true when drinking coffee on an empty stomach or in high amounts. According to nutritionist Jennifer Allport, if one notices heartburn, chest pain, stomachache or nausea after drinking coffee, it may be wise to reduce or stop their ingestion of coffee.
Coffee May Contribute to Osteoporosis
By reducing the absorption of calcium, coffee may contribute to the weakening of bones. Multiple studies have found a link between a high coffee consumption and an increased risk of osteoporosis, regardless if the coffee is decaffeinated or not. Additionally, coffee can increase the excretion of calcium, magnesium and other nutrients that are associated with strong bones.
Coffee Can Affect the Skin Negatively
Drinking coffee can affect the skin negatively. Coffee can lead to a depletion of certain nutrients in the body, such as Vitamin C, which is essential for healthy skin. As well, caffeine disrupts blood circulation to the skin, leading to paler skin and dark circles under the eyes. Since coffee can make one dehydrated, it can lead to dry, lacklustre skin without sufficient water consumption.
Caffeine Can Cause Anxiety and Addiction
Caffeine can act as a stimulant and lead to increased anxiety, anxious feelings, restlessness, and irritability. Those who rely on coffee for a quick burst of energy can become familiar with these symptoms and develop a reliance on coffee. According to psychiatrist Anna Perezon, regular and high intake of caffeine can lead to caffeine addiction. If one quits drinking coffee cold turkey, they may experience a range of withdrawal symptoms.
Coffee May Increase Cholesterol Level
A high intake of coffee can be detrimental to the cardiovascular system. Coffee contains cafestol and kahweol, compounds that can raise the blood cholesterol level and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Coffee can also increase triglyceride levels, further worsening heart health and increasing the risk of stroke and heart attack.
Coffee Can Disrupt Sleep
Drinking coffee, especially late in the evening, can disrupt one’s natural sleep cycle and result in difficulty falling asleep or sleeping restlessly. Most people require 7-9 hours of sleep every night and yet, according to the Sleep Foundation, more than half of all Americans report sleep-related issues. Caffeine can stay in the body for 4-6 hours, meaning those who drink coffee late in the evening can experience disrupted sleep.
Coffee Based Drinks May Have Unhealthy Additives
A wide variety of coffee beverages are available, however many of them use unhealthy additives in their ingredients. Such unhealthy additives can include high amounts of artificial sweeteners, dairy products, syrups, and processed ingredients with high fat and sugar content, greatly increasing the calorie and sugar content. While such coffee drinks can be enjoyable, consuming too much of them can lead to health issues.
Coffee Can Lead to Eventual Dependence
Drinking coffee can lead to dependence, particularly if consumed in large amounts on a regular basis. This can be because of the body becoming accustomed to the stimulant effects of the caffeine, leading one to become reliant on the drug in order to maintain a certain state of alertness or energy. Psychiatrist Dr Jeff Ross points out that in such cases, the person may require larger amounts of caffeine in order to experience desired effects.
High Coffee Consumption May Increase Addiction and Anxiety
High intake and regular consumption of coffee can lead to increased tolerance and addiction, and may eventually worsen anxiety levels as well. Caffeine, being an addictive stimulant, can lead to physical and psychological habituation, meaning the body and mind become reliant on the drug in order to maintain certain energy levels and focus. This can ultimately lead to increased anxiety levels and the body developing a dependency on coffee.
Coffee Increases Stress Hormone Levels
Coffee stimulates the body’s stress response system, causing an increased production of cortisol, adrenaline, and other stress hormones. This can lead to feelings of agitation and jitteriness, as well as having an effect on mental acuity, making one feel more overwhelmed and stressed. According to Dr Harris Gellman, high levels of stress hormones can lead to genetic changes in the body, which can further lead to health issues in the long-term.
High Intake of Coffee Has Links to Digestive Problems
Due to coffee’s stimulating effect, it can lead to digestive issues such as stomach upset, diarrhea, and constipation. High coffee consumption can also increase the production of stomach acids and lead to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). One may also experience discomfort such as bloating and stomach pain after drinking coffee.
