Can I Drink Coffee while Having Food Poisoning?
Food poisoning can be caused by several variables, from eating undercooked food to consuming leftovers that have been left out too long. Symptoms can often be severe, and may last for several days. Coffee is a traditional go-to for those experiencing fatigue, but the effects of this caffeinated beverage on food poisoning are not yet clear.
Most people know coffee as an energizing stimulant. Consuming this beverage can improve alertness, providing the much-needed pick-me-up from sluggishness. However, coffee is also known for its diuretic capabilities. As such, drinking coffee while sick can cause dehydration, indicating it might not be the best choice when suffering from food poisoning.
According to research, the caffeine contained in coffee is known to speed up the heart rate, bringing blood to the surface, which could help the symptoms of food poisoning. It is also understood to contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammatory reactions, which can help as food poisoning is an inflammatory reaction.
Speaking to the impact of coffee on the body when suffering from food poisoning, Dr. Evelyn Hileman, M.D., Chief Medical Officer at Pure Health, states: “It is common for people to feel dehydrated when suffering from food poisoning, so it might make sense to have coffee in moderation. The caffeine can help to reduce body aches, headaches and reduce nausea.
However, Dr. Hileman also states that “the acidity of the coffee can cause more dehydration and may exacerbate the symptom of food poisoning, as it can affect the gut, thus worsening the situation.”
Further research has found that one of the most severe symptoms of food poisoning is dehydration. Brewing an up of coffee will result in further dehydration, as the hot water used can irritate the stomach lining and increase the chances of vomiting further.
Although it is not recommended to drink coffee while sick, some see it as a suitable remedy. Dr. Stephen Kaunitz, board-certified family medicine physician, insists that having a cup of joe can “temporarily reduce vomiting and the severity of cramps, however, it’s important to ensure that your overall hydration levels are good, as it can cause more dehydration.”
Therefore, if one is to drink coffee while suffering from food poisoning, drinking it in moderation is key.
Risk Factors of Coffee and Food Poisoning
An important factor to consider when drinking coffee while suffering from food poisoning is the risk it poses to one’s health. Despite claims that it can help with symptoms, it can also cause more harm than good. Drinking coffee while sick can increase the risk of dehydration, due to its caffeine content and its diuretic properties.
Additionally, it can increase the risk of nausea and vomiting. The caffeine in coffee can upset the lining of the stomach, making it harder to digest food and beverages. Therefore, It is not recommended to have any caffeinated beverages when suffering from food poisoning. Furthermore, coffee can also worsen the symptoms. Research has found its acidic content can irritate the gut, increasing unpleasant symptoms such as intense pains, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Coffee can also interfere with the medications taken to reduce the symptoms. As it is a stimulant, it can counteract the effect of medications, such as those reducing nausea. In this case, it is ill-advised to risk further health risks and drink coffee while sick.
Alternatives to Drinking Coffee
When suffering from food poisoning, it is better to opt for other alternatives to coffee. To reduce dehydration, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids, such as water and electrolyte-replenishing drinks. The American College of Gastroenterologists suggests sticking with mild clear liquids that don’t contain added sugar.
Fruit-infused or herbal teas are a suitable choice, as they still contain some amounts of caffeine but they do not increase dehydration. That said, the caffeine in herbal teas is lower than in coffee, thus will be less beneficial in terms of alertness.
Furthermore, for people who are looking for an effective remedy for food poisoning, certain foods have also been found to soothe symptoms. Bland, easily digested foods, such as oatmeal and bananas, are known to help with digestive issues. As a bonus, they contain essential minerals and vitamins that can help to replenish the body of lost fluids.
Intensity and Duration
The occurrence of food poisoning varies from person to person. The length and intensity of the symptoms depend on the type of food that caused it. Research has found that in most cases, the symptoms subside within a week.
Most commonly, people suffering from food poisoning experience abdominal cramping, irritable bowel syndrome and nausea. Extreme cases may result in the need for intravenous fluids for dehydration. In this case, it is essential to approach a doctor to determine the best course of action.
Eating outbreaks occur when food contaminate with bacteria and other microorganisms, such as salmonella or E-coli. Though these cases can be treated with oral antibiotics, in some cases, they can be life-threatening.
How to Prevent Food Poisoning
Fortunately, there are a few steps one can take to reduce the chances of food poisoning. Firstly, it is essential to always wash your hands before preparing food, as this will reduce the chance of cross-contamination. In addition, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends washing vegetables and fruit thoroughly before eating them, as this can help take away debris that could change the taste of the item.
It is also important to ensure food safety. Always check if foods are within the expiration date, and if the inside of the fridge holds a temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower. Furthermore, make sure to keep raw and cooked food items separate from one another and make sure to cook food to their safe minimum internal temperature.
Rest and Stress Management
Dealing with severe symptoms is hard and draining. To reduce the duration of food poisoning, make sure to get plenty of rest and avoid activities that involve physical exertion. An undisturbed rest will help the body heal at a faster rate.
Proper stress management is also of essence during this time. Make sure to remove as many sources of stress as possible and employ relaxation techniques to manage its effects. Meditation or journaling are two activities one can make use of during this time, to help the body detox from the undesirable effects of food poisoning.
Environment and Hygiene
One of the reasons food poisoning can occur is due to a lack of proper hygiene in the environment. To reduce the risk of food poisoning, make sure to keep the surroundings clean. Cleaning surfaces with a solution of water and bleach, or opting for disposable paper towels and tissues, can help reduce the chance of a microbial outbreak.
Ensure to always wear gloves or use tongs or utensils when handling food. Make sure to wash them regularly, as they can harbor bacteria and lead to food poisoning. Proper food storage is also of significant importance. All dishes need to be kept covered and away from pets, as well as out of reach of children.
Conclusion
In conclusion, drinking coffee while suffering from food poisoning is not recommended. As its acidity can irritate the stomach further, worsening the symptoms and increasing the intensity further. To reduce the severity of the experience, it is important to pay attention to hygiene, follow food safety steps and keep the environment clean. Additionally, it is also essential to have plenty of rest and engage in relaxation practices. These will help to reduce the duration of food poisoning and improve one’s overall wellbeing.
