The age-old debate: does drinking too much coffee give you a headache? While some studies say yes, others say no. For some people, the symptoms can be mild and temporary, while for others, caffeine can worsen pre-existing headaches.
It’s an unpopular opinion among coffee-addicts, but many experts claim that overconsumption of caffeine can indeed lead to a headache. The logic is simple: your body is used to a certain level of caffeine and when that level is exceeded, it manifests itself in a headache. Furthermore, when you consume caffeine without eating, your blood sugar can drop which can result in feeling light-headed, lethargic and even having a headache.
The body also has an infuriating habit of getting used to regular caffeine consumption. People may think they’re boosting their productivity with coffee but what’s actually happening is that their bodies have grown tolerances to the stimulant. When they take a break from coffee, they could end up feeling worse than before.
It’s worth noting that some people have the exact opposite reaction to caffeine. Although it’s usually stimulating to most, those with chronic headache and migraine conditions can find relief from their symptoms when they drink coffee. In some cases, headache sufferers are encouraged to drink a cup of coffee when a headache begins; the caffeine helps them to reduce the severity of the pain.
Overall, the verdict from experts appears to be that caffeine does not directly cause headaches; however it can make them worse for those who are predisposed to them. Additionally, regular coffee consumption can result in dependency, which only heightens feelings of stress and anxiety, leading to an increased risk of headaches.
A simple solution to this conundrum is to adjust daily coffee intake. Moderate caffeine intake can give an energy boost for several hours without the withdrawal symptoms experienced after too much. An effective method is to alternate caffeinated and decaffeinated drinks throughout the day; reducing caffeine intake and still getting the energy boost.
Other, more serious, solutions can include avoiding coffee altogether, cutting back, drinking more water or seeking medical advice if the headaches persist. Abstaining from caffeine will likely cause withdrawal symptoms, but if it reduces headaches, the results could be very much worth it.
Causes of Caffeine Headaches
As previously mentioned, drinking too much caffeine on a regular basis can cause a headache. People usually take in upwards of 300 milligrams of caffeine a day but the normal recommended amount is around 200 milligrams for an average adult. Exceeding this figure can lead to withdrawal symptoms like tiredness, impatience and headaches.
Also, as with any three-dimensional pattern in our bodies, caffeine is addictive. Without realising we can become over-dependent on it; requiring that familiar hit of cappuccino and espresso to get through the day. A “tripwire” event can also trigger us to reach for that cup of coffee, like being tired, hurried, or stressed.
For some people, even just the smell of coffee can be enough to give them a headache. This is because of activation of the trigeminal nerve in the brain, giving a feeling of pulsating pressure or even pain in the temples and forehead. The smell of coffee can be quite strong, especially when it’s freshly brewed.
Benefits of Caffeine Intake
On the flip side, caffeine can be beneficial in small doses when it reduces the risk of diseases such as liver and prostate cancer. Furthermore, drinking coffee can easily provide us with two tablespoons of fibre, based on a 240 ml (8-ounce) serving. Eating fibre helps to maintain a healthy digestive system and keeps us regular!.
Other benefits include, increased alertness, improved concentration and increased physical performance, with numerous studies claiming that athletes who consume caffeine before and during training sessions, are able to perform better than those who abstain.
In addition, caffeine helps to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s. Despite coffee’s aggressive aroma and heady flavours, it contains flavonoid antioxidants that can actually protect our organs and arteries from oxidative damage.
Is Caffeine Good or Bad for You?
It’s difficult to say. In some cases, drinking coffee can be a good thing; it provides energy boosts when we need them, along with the many health benefits. However, for people who are prone to headaches and migraines, drinking too much coffee can aggravate their conditions and may also cause withdrawal headaches.
The key to successful caffeine consumption lies in moderation. Alternating between caffeinated and decaffeinated drinks and not having too much caffeine at any one time will help to reduce the risk of headaches. If you’re still getting headaches, it may be worth cutting down on consumption or speaking to a doctor.
Social Effects of Caffeine Consumption
Different people have different opinions on caffeine consumption, and this applies in social situations too. Some people believe that if someone has too much coffee, they are more likely to be irritable or angry. Others are convinced that coffee consumption leads to lack of sleep and fatigue, with more time spent in coffee shops or at home drinking coffee than with other people.
The truth is, everyone has their own perspective on this issue, and it’s worth discussing with friends and family to discover what people think. Coffee could be used to bond or it could be used to create distance between people. But at the end of the day, how much coffee you drink is a personal decision.
Risks of Caffeine Consumption
It’s important to consider the risks of drinking too much coffee. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system and increases blood pressure, which can be dangerous for people with pre-existing cardiac problems. Additionally, young people, pregnant women and those with anxiety disorders should avoid excessive consumption of caffeine.
Also, consuming too much coffee can lead to insomnia, anxiety and restlessness. Furthermore, those who are already anxious may find that caffeine only worsens their symptoms. Finally, regular coffee drinkers may find it hard to function without their cup of morning joe, with caffeine withdrawal possibly resulting.
Limiting Caffeine Intake
If you are worried about the effects of caffeine, there are some things that you can do to limit your intake. Avoiding machine-made coffee beverages since they often contain more caffeine, as well as switching to a weaker blend, can be good to keep caffeine intake in check.
Another tip is to look for alternative sources of energy such as natural energy drinks (with a low sugar content) or green tea. Also, drinking plenty of water is important – it helps to reduce headaches and flush toxins from the body which often results in improved symptoms.
Finally, it’s important to address the reason that we feel the need to drink coffee. Recognising the triggers which lead us towards it and then finding alternatives, such as exercise and healthy eating, can help us to find a healthier balance in life.
