At one time or another, students have all experienced the power of caffeine. Parents, teachers, and health practitioners alike have their own opinions on the matter: should students drink coffee? In actuality, there is no “correct” answer to this question. There are numerous aspects to consider when deciding.
Coffee can be incredibly beneficial for students. It has multiple positive effects on cognitive performance, such as giving the drinker sharper focus, improved alertness, and faster reaction times. Coffee also increases motivation and productivity. Caffeine gives students a “pick-me-up” when feeling tired and is often key to completing lengthy late-night tasks, such as essays and exams.
Despite its benefits, coffee may not always be advantageous. Too much caffeine can lead to adverse health effects, even in the short-term. Common side effects include anxiety, jitteriness, and headaches. Additionally, it can reduce the quality of sleep and interfere with concentration. Dr. Callum Seaman, registered nutritional doctor, explains that “Excess caffeine is linked to headaches and palpitations in some individuals, and consuming large amounts of this stimulant can result in a dependency and tolerance.”
A healthy and balanced approach to consuming coffee is important. According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, moderate caffeine consumption is 200mg which is approximately two to three 8-ounce cups of coffee daily. Too much caffeine can greatly affect a student’s academic performance, yet the right amount can enable them to power through the day.
Drinking coffee is not for everyone, and students should assess their own lifestyle before incorporating it into their routine. Caffeine affects individuals differently, so trial and error may be necessary. Additionally, coffee isn’t the only way to gain alertness and concentrate. Exercising and drinking plenty of water are also effective ways to focus and stay awake.
Nutrition
When considering whether or not to incorporate coffee into a student’s routine, it is important to consider the different ways the beverage can be consumed. For students wanting to enhance the nutritional profile of their coffee, there are many options available. Adding organic dairy, grass-fed butter, or coconut oil can increase energy, focus and offer important fatty acids for improved cognitive performance.
Likewise, limiting the use of sugar is vital. Coffee creamer, along with added sugar, may cause a sugar crash. If wanting to sweeten coffee, consider adding some all-natural sweeteners, like raw honey, maple syrup or stevia, which will bring its own health benefits.
Overall Impact on Health
Consuming coffee in moderation can be beneficial for the overall health of a student. Studies have linked moderate coffee consumption with numerous health benefits such as a decreased risk of certain forms of cancer, improved metabolic rate, and protection against some autoimmune illnesses.
According to Dr. Charlotte Smith, registered general practitioner, “When consumed in moderation and in a healthy way, coffee can offer numerous advantages. It is well-regarded as a powerful antioxidant, which can help to protect against damage caused by oxidative stress.”
Personal Reaction
On a personal level, my conclusion on students drinking coffee largely depends on the individual lifestyle and genetic makeup of the person. While I do believe that there are a myriad of benefits to consuming it, I think it is important to remember that different people will respond to it differently.
For me, I found that I could stay alert and stay energised for long periods of time when consuming coffee. But I also found that I had to be mindful of my intake. Too much of it would leave me jittery and anxious. I think it is important to experiment, and to find the balance that works for the individual.
Environmental Impact
When considering whether or not students should drink coffee, it is also important to think of the environmental impact of the production and consumption of the beverage. When sustainably sourced and packaged, coffee has a quite small environmental footprint compared to other drinks consumed by students.
As with most agricultural ingredients, the sourcing of coffee beans is the most important responsibility. Poorly sourced coffee beans can contribute to deforestation, exploitation of workers and the destruction of ecosystems. It is essential to purchase ethically and sustainably sourced beans which do not compromise on quality.
Beyond beans, the many stages of the production process, from farming and harvesting to roasting and packaging, also contribute to the environmental impact of coffee production. When buying a cup of coffee, always look out for recyclable and compostable packaging, as well as initiatives like “Farm-To-Cup” which trace beans and ensure sustainable methods of production throughout the supply chain.
Societal Implications
The act of drinking coffee is more than just a beverage – it has become a cultural experience offering social and communal opportunity. Coffee-houses are now populated by people from all walks of life and often serve as a hub for the local community. Consequently, drinking coffee can be beneficial on a social and cultural level.
For students, this facet of coffee-drinking is invaluable for networking, for forming collaborations and for cultivating a diverse range of relationships. Numerous studies have also hailed the positive impacts that coffee-houses have on people’s wellbeing and mental health, with changes in social behaviour and a shift from feeling isolated to connected. Students can take advantage of this in a way that healthily fulfills their social needs.
There is so much to consider when deciding whether or not students should drink coffee. Caffeine has both benefits and drawbacks which can be unique to each individual. However, using it responsibly and monitoring intake is recommended. Traditional and creative coffee options, combined with its social and environmental considerations, offer students a deep cultural experience of the beverage.
