Regular physical activity is important for overall health, but can drinking coffee after working out have any benefits? Every person should adjust their diet and hydration needs to match their activity level. A few studies suggest that coffee may be beneficial to people who exercise regularly.
Coffee, a popular beverage which contains of caffeine, may provide a slight edge for athletes in some cases. This does not mean drinking coffee before or during a workout; pre-workout caffeine has been linked to adverse effects like nausea and diarrhea. However, drinking coffee after physical activity may provide some benefits.
Research suggests that drinking a cup of coffee after exercise can promote balanced hydration. One study found that athletes who drank coffee after exercise had a significantly lower relative water loss than athletes who didn’t drink any coffee at all. This suggests that coffee may help people hydrate more effectively.
In addition, a study in the Journal of Applied Physiology noted that coffee consumption after exercise may reduce muscles soreness. Coffee can also provide a temporary energy boost. The caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, providing energy more quickly than do carbohydrates.
Coffee may also reduce the risk of injury. A study in the journal Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews found that consuming caffeine before an aerobic activity may help reduce the risk of soft-tissue injuries.
However, everyone metabolizes caffeine differently, so its effects may vary from person to person. It should also be noted that caffeine may cause side effects like elevated heart rate, difficulty sleeping, anxiety, and irritability. People should be mindful of how much caffeine they consume and how it affects their bodies. Moderation is key.
Insulin Levels
A recent study in the British Journal of Nutrition found that drinking coffee after exercise may help keep insulin levels lower. The study found that the participants experienced better insulin sensitivity after consuming the coffee.
This suggests that drinking coffee may help people with diabetes or metabolic disorder by helping them to regulate their insulin levels. However, more research is needed to confirm this.
Calorie Burning
Research also suggests that drinking coffee after exercise may increase calorie burning. A study in the journal Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise found that participants experienced better fat-burning effects after both exercise and coffee consumption.
This suggests that drinking coffee after exercise may help people burn additional calories. This may be beneficial for people trying to lose weight, but most nutrition experts encourage people to build healthy eating habits, rather than relying solely on beverages like coffee.
Risks and Considerations
Anyone considering adding coffee to their post-workout routine should take certain precautions. Too much coffee can lead to irritability, restlessness, and difficulty sleeping. Additionally, coffee can interfere with calcium absorption, especially for people at risk for osteoporosis. Those at risk should work with their doctor to find an appropriate caffeine intake.
It is also important to note that coffee contains some vitamins and minerals, and the brewing process adds healthy antioxidants. However, adding large amounts of sugar, cream, or artificial sweeteners to coffee can add significant calories. People should avoid high-calorie beverages and instead opt for healthy, nutrient-dense snacks.
Summary
Drinking coffee after exercise may help people regulate their insulin levels, burn additional calories, and even reduce muscle soreness. Coffee may also promote balanced hydration. However, people should be aware that coffee can cause adverse effects, and they should opt for healthy snacks rather than high-calorie coffee beverages.
