Manufacturers boast of their energy drinks, but they rarely talk about their side effects. Caffeine-laden beverages such as soda, energy drinks, and coffee can aggravate all of the nasty symptoms associated with being sick. With such an abundance of widely available energy drinks and coffee nowadays, many people ignore the dangers associated with drinking too much of them when they are feeling under the weather.
When feeling unwell, it is easy to grasp for a cup of coffee to perk up and function better for the day. However, the diuretic effect of caffeine can lead to dehydration and overstimulation of the body, making it more susceptible to viral infections and colds. Even with moderate amounts of caffeine, research suggests that people may experience an increase in cold-like symptoms when they drank caffeinated beverages while they were ill, such as an increase in coughing, sneezing, and achiness. In fact, the more caffeinated beverages someone drinks, the more miserable they can become, departing them more vitamin deficiency, endotoxin overload, and in long-term, anxiety and depression.
On the other hand, as everyone is different, some people who are mildly ill with a cold or the flu may find that consuming a moderate amount of caffeinated beverages could help ease their headaches, body aches, and improve their energy levels providing them would a boost to keep going on days when they feel below-average. From a medical perspective, however, it’s best to avoid this. The National Sleep Foundation advises people to rest and avoid consuming any caffeinated beverages when feeling sick. This is because caffeine acts as a stimulant and can prevent the body from feeling relaxed and getting the rest it needs and deserves to fight off the illness. This also holds true for energy drinks, because having too much of them can arouse the same symptoms that they are intended to suppress.
In conclusion, if you are feeling unwell and need that extra energy boost, it may be best to reach for a cup of warm water with honey and lemon or green tea, rather than coffee or energy drinks. This is because caffeine overstimulates the body and can lead to dehydration, perpetuating symptoms and leaving the body more vulnerable to a prolonged state of illness.
Alternatives Effective for Relaxation
When feeling low and needing a break from the hustle and bustle of life, there are alternatives to coffee and energy drinks that may be effective for relief and relaxation. Things like herbal teas, hot baths, and warm homemade meals can make all the difference not only in terms of relaxation, but also for immune-system health and overall well-being.
Herbal teas such as chamomile, lavender, peppermint, and lemon balm are excellent hot drinks to calm the nerves, reduce stress, and get some much-needed relaxation. Additionally, taking a hot bath can also be incredibly calming and soothing. It can help reduce stress and raise the core body temperature, which can also be beneficial for treating colds and flus. Lastly, enjoying some warm homemade meals cooked with fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can provide the body with essential vitamins and minerals, while providing comfort and relaxation.
Proper Hygiene can Help Fight off Disease
Maintaining proper hygiene and naturally boosting the immune system is essential for fighting off any kind of illness. This includes getting sufficient amounts of rest, staying hydrated, and avoiding stressful situations. Additionally, introducing a multivitamin or supplement into one’s diet can also strengthen the immune system. One of the best supplements is vitamin C, which can help protect cells from being injured by free radicals. Another great supplement is zinc, which has been known to speed up the recovery from the common cold.
Furthermore, getting up and moving can help reduce the risk of getting sick. Exercise triggers the release of endorphins in the body, which create feelings of happiness and relaxation, decreasing stress levels and strengthening the immune system. For these reasons, it is beneficial to move around and burn off any excess energy when feeling unwell.
Is it Possible to Detox From Caffeine?
Detoxing from caffeine can be difficult, because the impact of caffeine on the body can be quite severe if someone consumed high quantities on a regular basis. Withdrawal symptoms like headaches, exhaustion, irritability, and a mistaken belief of not being able to focus can often occur. The key is to gradually reduce any caffeine consumption, starting from one cup of caffeinated drink to none over a few weeks. This can help minimise the symptoms of withdrawal and make the process of quitting easier.
When ditching coffee and energy drinks, it is important to try to find alternatives to minimise any potential caffeine cravings. This can range from drinking herbal teas, juices, or vegetable juices, to exercising, meditating, and getting adequate amounts of sleep. These activities can help to reduce stress and keep the body nourished and energised. Additionally, it is also wise to keep oneself hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
Moderation is Key When Feeling Unwell
In general, it is essential to be mindful and practice moderation surrounding any caffeinated beverage consumption, especially when feeling unwell. Keeping a balanced and healthy lifestyle can help to reduce your risk of getting sick by strengthening the immune system, alongside low-risk hygiene practices.
Caffeinated beverages can provide an energy boost, but it is not worth it in comparison to the potential risks that come with drinking these beverages, particularly when feeling unwell. With so many other alternatives on the market, it is best to stay away from any energy drinks and coffee when feeling run down. If a beverage is needed, herbal teas, fresh juices, and smoothies can be beneficial in terms of restoring the body with vitamins and minerals, providing comfort and relaxation.
Regular Check-Ups Could Be Detrimental
Getting regular check-ups and physicals at the doctor can also be beneficial in terms of reducing risk of illness. Knowing your body and understanding any underlying conditions can help to raise awareness of potential risks and improve lifestyle choices. This can range from identifying nutrient deficiencies, weakened immunity, and any other medical complications that may need to be monitored or treated.
Lastly, when sick, it is important to recognise and respect the level of discomfort that one is feeling. It is often useful to rest, eat healthily, and allow the body to recuperate rather than pushing through with any unnecessary tasks. Moderation and rest are always key when feeling unwell.
