Is it Bad to Drink Coffee while Sick?
When you’ve got the sniffles and a scratchy throat, it’s natural to reach for something comforting to make you feel better. But often that comes in the form of a steaming cup of coffee. Although the caffeine can offer a bit of much-needed energy and a jolt of alertness, the question remains: is it actually bad to drink coffee while you’re sick? While experts don’t always agree, there are a few guidelines we can look to when getting our coffee fix when we’re a bit under the weather.
When it’s cold and flu season, layering up on caffeine in the form of coffee may feel like a lifesaver. But coffee can act as a diuretic, making it more difficult for your body to fight off an infection. Dr. Lina Velikova, a physician and writer, explains that “Caffeine has an effect on proper hydration and thus can prevent the body from getting rid of pathogens adequately.” Not only that, but drinking coffee can exacerbate dehydration, which can worsen an existing cough or sore throat.
Coffee’s main ingredient is caffeine, which can act as a stimulant and provide that much needed pick-me-up. But with a cold or flu, your body needs fuel to fight off the infection. So, while it’s tempting to reach for caffeine, it may be creating symptom displacement—meaning whatever illness symptoms the caffeine masks (such as fatigue, lack of clarity and pain) could actually be worsening your illness. When you drink coffee while sick, you’re not allowing your body to fully recover, says Dr. Velikova.
Caffeine is also a central nervous system stimulant—which can be beneficial in some cases. Dr. Velikova also acknowledges the benefits of coffee for those suffering from symptoms of fatigue and a general malaise or feeling of sluggishness that often accompanies some illnesses—whether it’s a cold or something worse. “In some cases, caffeine enhances alertness and focus, and it’s generally easier on the stomach over a soda,” she explains.
Still, Dr. Velikova emphasizes the importance of listening to your body, especially when you’re sick. Although caffeine may seem like a cure-all in the moment, it can delay longer-term recovery. If you’re experiencing a fever, dehydration, or stomach issues as a result of your cold or flu, it might be best to avoid caffeine altogether. “Decaffeinated varieties [of coffee] may still boost your alertness and mood, however, it’s important to stay away from caffeine if you’re already having symptoms that cause the issues at hand.”
Can Coffee Help Relieve the Symptoms of a Cold or Flu?
For those not looking to completely swear off coffee when sick, there are other options for reducing the symptoms of a cold or flu. Adding a bit of honey, ginger or lemon to your cup can act as a natural remedy, helping to soothe a sore throat while still getting the benefits of caffeine. Or, if you’re not feeling up for a hot beverage, opt for a cold brew or caffeinated tea instead.
These alternatives can help reduce the intensity of cold and flu symptoms by giving you some of the same benefits that a cup of coffee can without the possible side effects. Not to mention, both options are hydrating, so you can get the boost of caffeine without dehydrating your body (which is a double-edged sword when it comes to caffeine).
Using alternative ingredients in place of coffee can also help provide additional benefits. For example, adding lemon to your tea not only enhances the flavor, but can also increase your daily Vitamin C intake, helping your body to fight off the virus. On the other hand, adding honey to hot or cold drinks has a naturally sweet taste as well as antibacterial and antiviral properties—so it’s a natural way to soothe a sore throat.
Adapted Coffee Recipes for When You’re Feeling Under the Weather
If the thought of skipping your morning cup of coffee has you feeling down, then why not switch up your usual brew by adapting it to your current state of health?
For those with a sore throat, opt for warm drinks over anything iced. Adding a spoonful of honey to any warm beverage, such as a latte or cappuccino, can be great for soothing a sore throat. You can also switch up the type of milk you use in your coffee from the usual skimmed or semi-skimmed to almond or coconut milk. These types of milk have natural anti-inflammatory benefits that can reduce congestion.
If you’re feeling congested, then try switching your coffee to a filter or French-press option. These brew options provide a cleaner cup of coffee with less acidity than espresso-based coffees and won’t upset an already-troubled stomach. Furthermore, you can add a pinch of turmeric, one of the most widely-recognized spices when it comes to natural health benefits, to combat the feeling of congestion and alleviate pain.
For those needing a bit of added hydration to their day, try mixing cold brew concentrate with seltzer or adding a shot of MCT oil to your morning cup. Or, if you’re feeling under-the-weather, and the thought of caffeine is just too much, then opt for a decaffeinated option. Decaffeinated coffees still offer the familiar taste and texture of your favorite cup of joe, but without any of the added stimulants.
When Should You Avoid Coffee All Together?
Flu season or not, it’s always important to be mindful when it comes to the amount of caffeine you’re consuming. As mentioned earlier, coffee can be both a good friend and a dangerous enemy, depending on your personal health and the severity of your cold or flu symptoms. For this reason, experts recommend avoiding coffee all together if you’re experiencing certain symptoms or conditions.
If you have a fever, there’s a strong chance any caffeinated product can act as a diuretic, further exacerbating dehydration. Other symptoms and conditions that may warrant limiting your caffeine intake include digestive issues, high blood pressure, insomnia, palpitations, and anxiety. Caffeine can act as an irritant in this case, leading to a range of uncomfortable, if not dangerous, side effects.
Experience tells us another good rule of thumb when it comes to coffee consumption is to listen to your body. If you’re feeling bad and are struggling to decide whether having a cup of coffee is a good idea, take a moment to assess how you’re feeling. Is your body craving a bit of energy or sleep? Is your stomach content or in knots? Are you fatigued or dehydrated? Answers to these questions should help you make an informed decision about your caffeine consumption.
What Health Benefits Does Coffee Provide?
Although coffee might be off the table when you’re sick, it does provide a wide range of health benefits when enjoyed in moderation. Some of these benefits include improved energy, focus, and long-term cognitive function. As Dr. Velikova explains, “coffee is the only widely consumed beverage that has been extensively studied and has been found to be associated with many positive benefits.”
When it comes to intake, it’s generally recommended to stick to just one or two cups of coffee a day. Doing so can improve mental alertness and reduce the risk of developing some types of cancer, Parkinson’s, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, people who drink four or more cups of coffee a day may have reduced risks of stroke and heart failure.
Coffee also provides an additional antioxidant benefit that’s often not discussed. Antioxidants are compounds that help protect the body from free radicals—which can damage cells and increase inflammation in the body. High levels of free radicals can lead to chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. Although coffee doesn’t count as a major source of antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, and E, it does play an important role in providing the body with the right level of antioxidants when the intake of vitamins is low.
Conclusion
Given its wide margin of benefits, it’s fair to say that one can have coffee as a regular part of their diet when taken in moderation. However, when dealing with an infection such as a cold or a flu, it’s important to evaluate your body’s needs and monitor your caffeine intake. Depending on your symptoms, it may be best to skip coffee altogether or to go for a decaffeinated variety in order to reduce symptoms and give your body a good opportunity to fight off the virus.
