Does Drinking Coffee Cause Headaches?
Coffee has long been a beloved beverage, but does drinking coffee cause headaches? While everyone’s individual physiology is different, liking coffee, not liking coffee and being sensitive to coffee all contribute to the main question. To answer this question, however, we’ll need to consider the science of coffee and head pounding aches.
Caffeine Headaches
When asking “Does coffee cause headaches?” the first thing to consider is caffeine. Caffeine is a xantics that helps the body feel more alert. It constricts the blood vessels and acts on the brain, however too much of it can have an opposite effect on the body. Too much of this psychoactive compound can cause headaches in people sensitive to it.
For people that are caffeine-sensitive, a withdrawl headache can occur if they cut out coffee completely and alot. At one point, there is a threshold where the body begins to need the effects of caffeine, a concept known as habituation, and the flow of caffeine must be resumed.
Drinking too much of it or having so much of it in the system can produce a headache as well. This is often caused by dehydration and can be resolved by drinking plenty of fluids.
Additives to Coffee
Coffee can also cause headaches in people whose caffeine sensitivity is heightened by additives in coffee, such as sugar and dairy. As with caffeine, these additives can cause headaches in people sensitive to them. It’s important to pay attention to what’s in the cup when addressing whether coffee causes headaches.
It’s not just the milk and sugar, however. Allergies to coffee additives may also be a factor. In addition to milk and sugar, coffee commonly contains additives such as flavorings and preservatives. Coffee can also be combined with other ingredients, like energy drinks and vitamins, which may cause headaches when too much is consumed.
Dehydration Headaches
Coffee can also cause dehydration headaches in individuals if they don’t replenish lost fluids. Too much coffee can lead to excessive urination and the feeling of thirst. It’s important to always stay hydrated, especially when drinking coffee. Drinking water or switching to a low-caffeine tea can help reduce the risk of dehydration headaches.
How to Avoid Headaches from Coffee
The best way to reduce the chances of getting a headache from coffee is to moderate consumption and avoid ingredients that may agitate one’s physiology. Avoiding additives such as sugar, milk and preservatives can help with caffeine sensitive headaches. Drinking plenty of water and being mindful of the amount of coffee that’s drunk can help with headaches caused by over-consumption.
Coffee and Sleep Patterns
Having too much caffeine too close to bedtime can also cause problems with sleep patterns, which can lead to headaches. Some people are naturally more sensitive to caffeine and should adjust their caffeine consumption accordingly. It is important to find a caffeine consumption schedule that works for one’s own needs. Overall, having too much caffeine can affect mood, induce headaches and have other negative side effects.
Caffeine Sensitivity
Caffeine sensitivity is highly individual, and what affects one person may not affect another. People can become more sensitive to caffeine over time, and this is why it is beneficial to be aware of one’s own caffeine sensitivity. It is important to pay attention to the amount of caffeine one is consuming and adjust it as necessary.
Treating Existing Headaches
For those who experience headaches from drinking coffee, there are a few measures that can be taken to reduce the pain. Instead of pounding down caffeinated drinks, try using an over-the-counter pain reliever or a cold compress to ease the pain. Taking coffee out of one’s diet and gradually adding it back in can also help with acclimating the body to coffee.
Individual Impact of Coffee on Health
Coffee can have many positive effects on one’s health, such as a boost in energy and alertness. However, if coffee is having a negative effect on one’s health, like causing headaches, it’s important to be mindful of the amount and type of coffee one consumes. When consumed in moderation and with awareness of one’s individual caffeine sensitivity and physiological makeup, coffee can be a positive part of an overall healthy lifestyle.
