The Benefits of Drinking Coffee When Sick
Anyone who has illnesses like a cold or flu whether it be mild or severe knows how hard it can be to keep on going. Caffeine is a natural source of energy that is found in various foods and drinks and it can be a great boon during these times of being sick. Research has shown that drinking coffee when sick can reduce the general feeling of tiredness, often caused by sickness. In this article we will look at some of the benefits of drinking coffee when sick and how to incorporate it into your lifestyle.
First and foremost, drinking coffee when sick can help increase energy levels. This is because when someone is ill, their body is trying to fight off the illness and this can be an energy-consuming task. Caffeine has been shown to help increase the energy levels of those suffering from the common cold, flu, and even more serious illnesses such as cancer. This can help not only to make the patient more alert but also help them to perform daily tasks more easily.
Another benefit of drinking coffee when sick is that it can help reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a common symptom of illness, as well as being a side-effect of many medical treatments. Caffeine has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with the inflammation.
One other positive of drinking coffee when sick is that it can help to stimulate the immune system. Caffeine has been shown to be useful in boosting the body’s natural defenses against illness and when someone is already sick, this can be very beneficial in helping to fight off the infection.
Coffee May Help Reduce Depression and Anxiety
Given that depression and anxiety can often accompany sickness, drinking coffee when sick can be beneficial in this regard as well. In a study conducted by the University of Michigan, it was found that regular coffee intake can help reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety. This is due to the fact that caffeine helps to increase dopamine levels in the brain, which can create a feeling of wellbeing and reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.
It has even been speculated that drinking coffee when sick might have a positive effect on brain functioning. Caffeine has been found to increase focus, alertness, and memory. Therefore, if someone is feeling a bit foggy from their illness, having a cup of coffee could potentially help to improve mental clarity and focus.
Finally, there is some evidence to suggest that drinking coffee when sick can help to speed up recovery. Studies have found that those who drank coffee while ill were found to recover quicker than those who did not. This is because caffeine may help to stimulate the release of the white blood cells known as lymphocytes, which play an important role in the body’s ability to fight off infections.
What To Consider When Drinking Coffee
Whilst drinking coffee when sick can be beneficial in some ways, there are certain things to consider. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the coffee is not too strong as this can lead to some unpleasant side effects such as heartburn or even a feeling of jitteriness. Caffeine can also have a diuretic effect, so it is important to be mindful of drinking plenty of water alongside to stay hydrated. Furthermore, it is worth being aware that for those with underlying health conditions, drinking coffee could worsen the condition and so, should be consumed with caution.
What to Look for When Choosing a Coffee
There are many types of coffee on the market and it can be hard to know what to choose. When selecting a coffee to drink when sick, it is important to check the ingredients of the coffee before consumption. This will ensure that the coffee contains no added sugar or calories, and it is free from dairy or artificial sweeteners. It is wise to select organic coffees as these contain no synthetic or chemical additives. Additionally, be sure to check that the coffee is freshly roasted as this will ensure its full flavor and aroma is retained.
In Conclusion
In summary, drinking coffee when sick can have many benefits for those suffering from illness such as increasing energy levels, reducing inflammation, stimulating the immune system, and even helping to reduce depression and anxiety. Whilst it is important to be mindful of the strength of the coffee and what ingredients are included, when consumed in moderation, it can be a great boost during times when we are feeling under the weather.
An Overview Of Brewing Coffee At Home
Brewing coffee at home is a great way to ensure that the coffee you are drinking is fresh and full of flavor. It is relatively straightforward to do and there are a variety of tools available to make the job easier such as coffee grinders, kettles and drip coffee makers. Whilst the exact process will vary depending on the equipment used, the main steps are quite simple. Firstly, it is important to select the bean or blend you want to use. Then is the process of grinding the beans to a suitable consistency and the coffee is then added to the coffee maker. Depending on the method used, water is required and this should be heated to around 200°F for nine to eleven minutes. Finally, the coffee is extracted and ready to be served.
The Advantages of Brewing Coffee At Home
Brewing coffee at home offers many advantages. Firstly, it is often cheaper than buying coffee out which makes it much more cost-effective. Secondly, it is an excellent way to control the strength of the coffee, as well as being able to adjust the ingredients such as milk and sugar if desired. Additionally, the flavor of freshly brewed coffee is far superior to store-bought varieties, as it has not been sitting around for an extended period. Finally, it is an enjoyable experience that can be shared with family and friends.
Things To Bear In Mind When Brewing Coffee At Home
When brewing coffee at home, there are a few things that should be taken into consideration. Firstly, it is important to ensure that the equipment used is clean so that the coffee does not collect any unwanted bacteria or residual flavors from previous uses. Additionally, taking the time to ensure that the coffee is freshly ground and to the correct consistency is important for ensuring that the flavor of the coffee is at its best. Finally, the water used should be of an appropriate temperature to ensure the full flavor of the beans is extracted and the coffee is not too strong or weak.
