Many of us reach for coffee to give us a boost, especially when we’re feeling tired from being ill. But can you really drink coffee with the flu? While some believe that drinking coffee can help to ease the effects of the flu, others warn against it. In this article we explore the pros and cons of drinking coffee with the flu, so you can make an informed decision.
When it comes to colds and flu, we know that they can be caused by viruses, which means they’re not curable and can take as long as two weeks to go away. Symptoms may include fatigue, aching muscles, headaches and coughs. Coffee is known to have a stimulating effect on the body and there is some anecdotal evidence from people who have found that coffee does, indeed, help relieve some of the physical symptoms associated with the flu.
However, caffeine is a stimulant and too much can lead to dehydration. Dehydration can drain your body of needed fluids and electrolytes and leave it vulnerable to further illness, according to Dr. William C. Shiel Jr., a member of the American College of Physicians. While it can be tempting to reach for coffee when you’re feeling rundown, it is important to be aware of the risks involved. If you are fighting a fever and are already dehydrated, it can make it worse and make recovery slower.
Experts also say that caffeine can reduce your body’s ability to fight off the virus. A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that while caffeine intake is related to improved health outcomes, people who take a high amount of caffeine can also be more susceptible to infection. The same study suggests that this is due to the fact that caffeine can reduce the body’s ability to produce protective cells that fight off viruses, making it harder for our immune systems to work properly.
Although there is no definitive answer to the question of whether you can drink coffee with the flu, many experts agree that it’s best to err on the side of caution. It may be better to opt for some caffeine-free alternatives such as herbal teas, or take a lighter approach to your regular coffee drinking. When we’re feeling week and run down, it’s important to look after our bodies. Listen to your body, stay hydrated and nourished, and see what works for you.
Take extra precautions
When you are ill, the body’s immune system is already weakened and you may be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine. It is important to take extra precautions when it comes to consuming caffeine while ill and if possible, cut down your intake. If you do choose to drink coffee with the flu, try to go for decaffeinated varieties. Drinking lots of water can also help to flush toxins out of your body and keep you hydrated.
It is also important to factor in your own personal health concerns. If you have any pre-existing health conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease, you should discuss with your doctor your caffeine consumption guidelines and potential risks. Individuals with any existing health condition should approach drinking coffee with the flu cautiously and ensure that the extra stimulation that comes with drinking coffee does not worsen their condition.
Get adequate rest
Getting adequate rest and listening to your body is key when it comes to recovering from an illness, including the flu. While caffeine can temporarily boost your energy levels, it is no replacement for rest. Studies suggest that one of the most effective treatments for the common cold, is to get plenty of rest and to allow the body some time to recuperate and heal. On the flip side, while coffee can help to energise you temporarily, it can also disrupt your sleep when consumed too close to bedtime.
Caffeine is a stimulant and drinking coffee late in the day may impact on your ability to switch off and get to sleep. Being sleep-deprived while fighting an illness has been found to be counterproductive and can leave you feeling even worse. If you do plan to drink coffee while you’re recovering, try to have your last cup several hours before you plan to go to bed.
Should you drink coffee with the flu?
Whether you should drink coffee with the flu is really a matter of personal choice. Coffee provides a temporary energy boost that may help you to feel a bit more alert and energised when you’re not feeling well. That said, it is important to be aware of the potential drawbacks of drinking coffee when you’re feeling under the weather. Caffeine is a stimulant, and for some it can increase symptoms such as dehydration and fatigue. If you do choose to drink coffee with the flu, it is important to keep hydrated and get adequate rest.
The effects of caffeine on the body
Caffeine can provide a short-term energy boost, but it can also have longer-term side effects. Studies have found that large amounts of caffeine can increase your risk of insomnia, anxiety and panic attacks. People who tend to be more sensitive to caffeine may also experience restlessness, irritability and tremors.
Moreover, large amounts of caffeine can raise your blood pressure and increase your heart rate. It can also result in digestive problems, such as an upset stomach, nausea, diarrhoea and constipation. Caffeine can also interfere with your sleep, which can leave you feeling tired, irritable and less alert the following day.
Coffee alternatives
If you decide that you don’t want to consume any caffeine while you’re recovering, there are plenty of non-caffeinated drink options that may help you to stay hydrated. Herbal teas are an excellent choice as they come in a variety of different flavours and can be infused with ingredients like ginger or honey for extra flavour. Other caffeine-free options include dandelion root or chicory root coffee, malt drinks or green tea. And water is always a great choice for hydration.
Take-home message
Coffee can provide an energy boost for those who are feeling rundown, however it is not without its drawbacks. Whether you decide to drink coffee when you have the flu really depends on your personal circumstances and symptoms. If you do choose to opt for coffee, it is important to take extra precautions and listen to your body. If you don’t want to take a risk, there are plenty of other non-caffeinated options that may help you to stay hydrated, such as herbal teas or water.
