Fatigue
Coffee is known for its energizing effects. But consuming large amounts of coffee can actually cause fatigue. Drink too much coffee, and your body may start feeling tired because it is dealing with too much stimulation, as well as an increase in heart rate and body temperature. Drinking large amounts of coffee can also lead to insomnia, as the body tries to maintain its balance in order to reduce the amount of stimulation it is receiving. The fatigue that follows drinking a lot of coffee can last for several hours, sometimes even days.
Anxiety
Coffee is known for its ability to sharpen focus and alertness. However, when consumed in large amounts, coffee can also lead to feelings of anxiety. An overdose of caffeine can cause feelings of restlessness, irritability, and nervousness. Additionally, coffee can alter body chemistry and increase the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. Over-consumption of coffee can make it more difficult to concentrate and relax, leading to a state of anxiety.
Digestive Problems
Drinking too much coffee can have an adverse effect on the digestive system. Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning that it increases the body’s production of urine and can cause dehydration. In order to counteract this, the body must increase its production of water. This can lead to an upset stomach and other digestive issues, such as bloating and cramping. Additionally, drinking too much coffee can cause irritation of the stomach lining, resulting in acid reflux.
Heart Problems
Consuming too much coffee can also put strain on the heart. Caffeine is known for increasing blood pressure and heart rate, as well as large amounts of adrenaline in the body. This can lead to an irregular heartbeat, or palpitations. High levels of caffeine can also cause an increase in blood cholesterol and decrease in artery size, both of which can increase the risk of stroke or heart attack.
Dehydration
Excessive consumption of coffee can lead to dehydration. Caffeine is a diuretic, which means that it encourages the body to produce more urine and can lead to substantial loss of water in the body. Moreover, this is compounded by the fact that coffee can also increase thirst. Dehydration can cause headaches and fatigue, as well as other potential health issues.
Addiction
Consuming too much coffee can also lead to addiction in some cases. Caffeine, like any other enjoyable substance, can activate the pleasure and reward centers in the brain. Over time, one may develop a dependency on coffee, needing more and more in order to feel the same level of stimulation. This can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue and headache, when the coffee is removed from the person’s diet.
No Nutrients
Coffee does not contain any essential nutrients and vitamins, and can therefore not be considered a health food. Therefore, over-consumption of coffee can lead to deficiencies in vital nutrients and minerals. Additionally, when consumed in large amounts, coffee can act as an appetite suppressant and lead to unhealthy weight loss.
Alternatives to Coffee
There are plenty of alternatives to coffee that can provide a more balanced source of energy. Green tea and ginger tea are both known for providing steady energy throughout the day, as well as containing antioxidants and other beneficial chemicals. Additionally, new products like matcha and guayusa are gaining popularity as more natural and nutritious sources of energy.
Effects On Mental Health
Drinking too much coffee can also have a negative impact on mental health. Caffeine can cause spikes in stress hormones, resulting in feelings of anxiety and panic. Additionally, excessive coffee intake can disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, resulting in insomnia, difficulty concentrating, and general feelings of restlessness.
Sleep Quality
As mentioned previously, drinking too much coffee can disrupt the body’s natural rhythm and lead to difficulty sleeping. Caffeine can remain in the body up to six hours after consumption and can interfere with the sleep hormone, melatonin. Not getting enough sleep can lead to longer term issues such as fatigue and depression, as well as impairing cognitive functioning and response time.
Jittery Feeling
Another common symptom of drinking too much coffee is the feeling of jitters. This is caused by the excessive stimulation of the nervous system that occurs when a large amount of caffeine is consumed. It can cause discomfort, shakiness, and restlessness – all symptoms of too much stimulation.
Long-Term Health Risks
Over-consumption of coffee can have long-term health risks. Excessive stimulation of the body’s natural rhythms can lead to fatigue, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Additionally, coffee does not contain any essential nutrients, so long-term dependence on coffee can lead to deficiencies in important vitamins and minerals. It can also disrupt the body’s ability to process and utilize nutrients from food, leading to further health issues.
Short-Term Effects
The short-term effects of drinking too much coffee include jitters, restlessness, irritability, nervousness, and an uptick in heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, it can lead to insomnia, bloating, cramping, and other digestive problems. Consuming too much coffee can also lead to addiction and unhealthy weight loss.
The Bottom Line
Drinking too much coffee can be detrimental to your health in both the short and long term. It can lead to feelings of fatigue, anxiety, and restlessness, as well as digestive problems, faster heart rate, and addiction. Caffeine can also disrupt the body’s natural rhythms, resulting in insomnia and difficulty sleeping. If you drink an excessive amount of coffee, it is important to consult with a doctor to ensure you are maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
