Religious Perspectives
Within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS), coffee and tea are considered to be ‘hot drinks’. Consumption of coffee and tea is prohibited by the church, along with other kinds of drugs such as tobacco and alcohol. This conviction is a result of the Word of Wisdom, a set of dietary instructions given by Joseph Smith, the founder of Mormonism (LDS). According to church, the Word of Wisdom was a revelation from God given in 1833. Smith’s orders stated that hot drinks were ‘not for the body or belly’, and that the use of them was ‘not good’ (The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints).
These rules have been followed closely by the members of the LDS Church ever since. The knowledge around coffee and tea has changed over time, and therefore, so has the interpretation of the scripture. For example, many early Mormons considered hot chocolate and spiced cider to be regarded as ‘hot drinks’, so they were avoided as well. Today, most Mormon adherents understand ‘hot drinks’ to only refer to coffee and tea.
This literal reading of the Word of Wisdom holds a particular importance for LDS members. A common truth found within Mormonism is that obedience to the Law of Chastity is essential for salvation. This does not merely refer to sexual behaviours, but rather to all actions taken in accordance with God’s laws. Obedience to these laws is not just an outward act, but an internal acceptance of the will and grace of God. Abstinence from coffee and tea is seen by LDS members as an act of faith and obedience, and is therefore a part of their religious character.
Cultural Perspectives
Coffee and tea abstention is certainly not limited to the LDS Church. Members of other religious sects, such as the Seventh-day Adventists, also abstain from the use of caffeine. Each of these denominations has its own interpretation of the scripture and its own reasons for abstaining. From dietary restrictions to social values, the reasons behind abstinence vary depending on the group.
One common cultural perspective shared across many groups is the idea that abstinence from coffee and tea gives one an advantage of discipline. The phrase ‘Where there’s no coffee, there’s no temptation’ is often quoted by members of the LDS church as a way of reminding themselves of the benefits of abstention. Additionally, avoiding consumption of coffee and tea can help LDS adherents remain mindful of avoiding other substances such as alcohol, drugs and tobacco.
Moreover, Mormons tend to believe that avoiding the use of coffee and tea will foster a healthier lifestyle overall. The health benefits of avoiding caffeine are known, including decreased risk of depression and anxiety, improved cognitive performance, and better sleep. Additionally, the practice of abstaining from caffeine has been linked to higher mental clarity and concentration.
Finally, LDS adherents also believe that avoiding the use of caffeine will help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Caffeine can act as a stimulant, causing feelings of agitation and restlessness. By abstaining from its use, Mormon adherents are able to quiet their minds and find peace.
Scientific Perspectives
Scientifically, there is a growing body of evidence that indicates abstinence from coffee and tea may be beneficial to physical and mental health. Studies have found that long-term abstention from these substances may result in better cardiovascular health, improved metabolic health, and an overall lower risk of premature death.
The beneficial effects of avoidance of caffeinated beverages on physical and mental health are thought to be linked to several different factors. One primary factor is that these drinks contain high levels of antioxidants, which can reduce inflammation and damage to the body’s cells. Coffee and tea also contain compounds that can improve focus and alertness, as well as improve physical endurance.
Another key factor is that caffeine can disrupt certain hormones such as cortisol, which is known to be linked to feelings of stress and anxiety. Studies have found that people who abstain from caffeine may have lower levels of cortisol in their bodies, which can lead to a lower risk of developing depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders.
Finally, studies have also suggested that avoiding coffee and tea may help improve brain function. Researchers have found that regular abstention from these substances can lead to improved cognitive performance, better recall, and a quicker processing speed.
Economic Perspectives
From an economic perspective, abstention from coffee and tea can also have a positive effect. Given the prevalence of coffee and tea consumption in Western society, it is no surprise that abstention from these beverages can lead to financial savings. For example, in terms of consumption, individuals who choose to abstain from these beverages may save upwards of $50 per month – a substantial sum that can be put toward other expenses.
Moreover, abstention from coffee and tea can have positive economic effects for businesses as well. For example, businesses may benefit from the presence of LDS adherents in the workplace, as they may be more productive and have higher job satisfaction than those who drink caffeine regularly. Additionally, abstention from these drinks could result in fewer health-related absences and higher morale in the workplace.
Finally, abstention from coffee and tea can also lead to positive economic effects in terms of taxation. The US government has long recognized that the consumption of caffeine has adverse effects on individuals, and has therefore taken steps to reduce or eliminate taxes on specific types of beverages. In 2018, for example, the US government passed the ‘Caffeine Tax’, which exempted certain types of caffeinated beverages from being subject to taxation. By abstaining from the purchase of these kinds of beverages, consumers can benefit from lower taxes.
Psychological Perspectives
Finally, abstention from coffee and tea can also have positive psychological effects. Studies have found that individuals who abstain from caffeine are more relaxed and have higher emotional stability than those who drink it regularly. This is due in part to the fact that caffeine can cause feelings of restlessness and agitation, which can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life. As such, avoiding consumption of these beverages can have beneficial psychological effects.
In addition, abstention from coffee and tea can also lead to better mental clarity and focus. Caffeine consumption can lead to increased levels of stress hormones, which can impair cognitive performance and lead to distractions. By abstaining from consumption, individuals can have better focus and improved mental clarity.
Finally, abstention from coffee and tea can lead to improved work and school performance. Studies have found that individuals who choose to avoid caffeine have an increased ability to concentrate and focus, and are better able to recall information. As such, abstention from coffee and tea may lead to improved productivity in the workplace and better grades in school.
Conclusion
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) and other religious denominations that follow the Word of Wisdom have found a variety of benefits to abstaining from the use of coffee and tea. From cultural to scientific and economic perspectives, abstention from these beverages brings agreat many advantages. Moreover, there are also psychological benefits to abstention, such as improved mental clarity and focus and better work and school performance.
