Overview
Everyone has heard the advice to avoid drinking coffee when they have a cold or the flu. But can you really drink coffee when you have the flu? It is a question that many of us have asked, especially given the fact that most of us rely on coffee to give us a boost of energy and provide relief during illness. According to experts, it is possible to drink coffee while you have the flu, but with some caveats.
Can Coffee Give You the Flu?
It is important to understand that coffee itself cannot give you the flu, or any other type of illness. Caffeine is a stimulant, and it has been shown to boost your immune system, helping your body to fight off the flu virus. In fact, some experts believe that the antioxidants found in coffee may help to promote healthy functioning of the immune system.
Pros of Drinking Coffee
When suffering from a cold or the flu, drinking coffee can offer many benefits. For one thing, the caffeine in coffee can give you a temporary boost of energy, which can help ease some of the fatigue that comes with being sick. Also, coffee can act as a pick-me-up, providing an adrenaline rush that can help you push through the day.
Cons of Drinking Coffee
While the above benefits of coffee sound great, there are some downsides to consider. First of all, coffee can lead to dehydration, which is the last thing you want when you have a fever. Secondly, the caffeine in coffee can act as a stimulant, which can make you feel more agitated or anxious. Finally, drinking too much coffee can interfere with your body’s ability to get restful sleep, something that is essential to getting over the flu.
Should You Drink Coffee?
Ultimately, whether or not you should drink coffee when you are sick is something that you should discuss with your doctor. Some experts suggest that drinking a cup of coffee in the morning, then avoiding it for the remainder of the day, is the safest approach. If you are taking any medications, you should also check with your doctor to make sure that drinking coffee does not interfere with their effectiveness.
Herbal Teas
If you want to get some of the benefits of caffeine without the risks, you might consider trying an herbal tea instead. Studies have shown that herbal teas, like green tea and chamomile tea can help to boost your energy level and relieve some of the symptoms of the flu, such as congestion. Furthermore, because herbal teas contain no caffeine, they will not interfere with digestion or your ability to get a good night’s sleep.
Supplements
If you are looking for a way to get an energy boost without having to drink coffee, consider taking some supplements. Many supplements are designed to help boost your energy levels naturally, without having to rely on stimulants like caffeine. Vitamins and minerals like iron, zinc, and B-complex vitamins can all help to boost your energy levels and help your body fight off the flu virus.
Essential Oils
Essential oils such as eucalyptus, peppermint, and tea tree oil have been found to have some antiviral properties, which can help reduce the symptoms of the flu. Inhaling the scent of these oils can help open up your airways and reduce congestion. Additionally, some of these oils may help to boost your overall energy level, making it easier for you to get through the day.
Rest and Relaxation
Finally, when it comes to relieving the symptoms of the flu, rest and relaxation are key. Make sure to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids to help your body fight off the virus. Avoid any strenuous activities and take time to do activities like yoga or meditation, which can help reduce stress and help you maintain your energy levels.
