Can You Drink Coffee with COVID?
What was once a simple habit has come under a microscope like never before these days. With everyone so intertwined with the novel coronavirus, a major lifestyle habit related to this disease, drinking coffee, has been put under scrutiny. Does it help, does it hurt, and are there any cautions one should take when drinking?
We know that coffee can have a major impact on how your body operates. Coffee contains caffeine, a stimulant that has been found to temporarily increase alertness and reduce fatigue. Other substances within it affect other parts of the body and can have a further impact on alertness.
When it comes to the novel coronavirus, research remains inconclusive as to whether or not coffee can make a difference in helping or hurting the cause. Given the nature of this virus, it seems reasonable to follow the general precautions you would take with any virus – wash your hands, practice sanitary safe habits, stay away from others if possible, and drink plenty of fluids, including coffee, to stay hydrated.
Research does suggest, however, that moderate levels of caffeine consumption do not appear to have a strong negative impact on the body’s ability to fight off the virus. A moderate level has been determined to be around 400 milligrams of caffeine a day, which equates to about four cups of coffee.
Certain medical professionals suggest that drinking coffee while fighting off Covid-19 can be beneficial. For example, energy boosting beverages like coffee can help restore the body’s energy levels to help deal with the fatigue that comes with an illness such as this.
It’s also possible that the substance itself can be of some benefit. Caffeine has been known to reduce inflammation in the body, and studies have shown that the novel coronavirus can lead to inflammation. Therefore, moderate amounts of coffee consumption could be a help in controlling that inflammation.
Coffee can also help by opening the airways, which is important not just for those fighting coronavirus, but also for those who suffer from other respiratory illnesses.
Impact of Coffee On COVID-19
Acute effects of coffee consumption may also play a role in how one faces the virus. Caffeine can, of course, increase alertness and energy levels, but it can also reduce the amount of oxygen the body produces, which may be an issue depending on one’s pre-existing respiratory condition. Additionally, excessive amounts of caffeine may lead to fatigue and dehydration, which can weaken the body and make it more susceptible to illness.
It is suggested that, instead of drinking caffeine to help with the effects of the virus, one should drink herbal tea in order to maintain hydration and improve the respiratory system without the taxing effects of caffeine. Similarly, coffee can also help restore electrolytes, which can be depleted due to the loss of fluids caused by the illness.
Drinking Coffee Safely With COVID-19
Though medical experts are torn between the realities of drinking coffee in relation to the virus, it’s important to remember that if one is sick and drinking coffee, it should be in moderation and with caution.
If you decide to drink coffee while fighting the virus, it’s important that you stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids will help to keep the body strong and healthy, thus fighting the virus more effectively.
It’s also essential to use caution with caffeine, particularly if it exacerbates pre-existing conditions. Restricting caffeine intake to less than four cups a day is a good way to go. Additionally, be sure to consult a medical professional if your symptoms worsen after adding coffee to your diet.
Have Coffee For Enjoyment Not For Beneficial
Understandably, you may want to make the most of coffee’s potential benefits if you’re suffering from the novel coronavirus. But it’s important not to confuse potential benefits with real results and to keep in mind that coffee is primarily intended for enjoyment, not for curing illnesses.
The bottom line is, if you’re suffering from the virus, moderation and safety should be your priority. Drinking coffee can be beneficial in certain contexts, but only if you drink it responsibly and with due caution. And, as with any other lifestyle decision, it’s important to pay attention to the advice of your medical professional.
Alternatives Ingredients For Coffee As An Option
Folks looking to alternate coffee or reduce it as an option can easily possess something else in their morning. As a substitute of your favorite caffeinated beverage, you could choose to consume some green tea, which is said to have an abundance of antioxidants including EGCG which is also known to have immunomodulatory properties and also be beneficial for the p organs or cortex in the body.
The drink can also reduce the amount of inflammation in the body and help with boosting the immune system. For those looking for something tastier, a smoothie is also a great option and can consist of fresh fruits and vegetables. If smoothies are too thick for someone’s preference, a blend of water, coconut water, vegetable juice, or fruit juice with some added ginger and lemon could do the trick.
Winding Down With Herbal Tea
Another great alternative to coffee is making yourself a cup of herbal tea. There are several different types of tea that are said to be a natural remedy for illness such as ginger, chamomile, and turmeric tea. All of these options contain essential vitamins and minerals, as well as natural anti-inflammatory properties that may be useful while battling illnesses.
For those looking to wind down before bedtime, chamomile tea is an herbal remedy with sedative properties that could be helpful while trying to increase rest. As a bonus, many herbal teas are caffeine-free, which can be a nice break from the mid-afternoon slump many suffer from.
Adding Vitamins and Mineral Supplements To Your Coffee
Aside from switching up the types of beverages you consume, it’s also important to ensure your body is getting all the necessary vitamins and minerals to maintain optimal health. This is especially important when your body is struggling to combat an illness such as the coronavirus.
One way to combat this problem is to add vitamins and mineral supplements to your cups of coffee. Various types of supplements, such as vitamin B12, can help keep your energy levels up and even help to boost your overall mood. Additionally, some types of vitamins and minerals can help facilitate the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut, which is thought to be beneficial for fighting off any kind of illness.
Maintaining Mindful Health Habits During Recovery With Coffee
It may not seem like it matters much when it comes to one’s coffee routine, but the reality is that the environment we are in has changed significantly in the last year and a half. Keeping mindful health habits—such as drinking coffee to increase alertness or liquid-based supplements to help maintain strength—might feel like overly vigilant behavior, but they can be a way to help manage the stress of the times.
From a medicinal standpoint, drinking coffee when suffering from and recovering from COVID-19 may be beneficial. But it’s important to do so responsibly, providing one follows the recommended guidelines of their medical professionals. Bottoms up, and here’s to better health and handling unexpected health hurdles with positivity and perseverance.
