The Health Benefits of Coffee
When consumed in moderation and without adding cream, sugar or other unhealthy additions, coffee is a potentially beneficial beverage that can help improve overall health. The main component of coffee, caffeine, is known to improve metabolism and lead to increased focus, attention and cognitive abilities. Studies have also indicated links between regular consumption of coffee and a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, stroke, some cancers and others. However, given the stimulating nature of coffee and the fact that many people are experiencing a cold, it is important to ask the question – is it ok to drink coffee with a cold?
Drinking Coffee When You Have a Cold
Coffee’s reputation as a ‘cure-all’ for medical conditions and ailments is debatable, however ‘cuppa joe’ may indeed be beneficial for treating certain cold symptoms. Firstly, the caffeine found in coffee is known for its energizing capabilities, and is not only used for mental focus, but also as a mood enhancer. For people dealing with a cold, this means an increase in energy, allowing them to take part in activities and day-to-day tasks. Secondly, coffee is an effective diuretic, meaning it can help relax the muscles and increase salivation. With increased salivation comes the breaking down of thick mucous that can occur during a cold. Finally, some studies have indicated that coffee’s anti-inflammatory properties can help to combat inflammation. However, this is only true when coffee is consumed in moderation.
Coffee and Colds – The Risks
On the other hand, coffee can also aggravate symptoms associated with the common cold. For starters, the stimulating effects of coffee can increase your heart rate and cause dehydration. This can be particularly strainful on the body, especially when already dealing with a cold. Furthermore, coffee’s acidity can lead to nausea, vomiting, and acid reflux; all of which can contribute to an increase in discomfort. In some occasions, coffee’s diuretic properties can also cause dehydration, further exacerbating many of the symptoms of a cold.
Should I Drink Coffee When I Have a Cold?
Ultimately, it is important to weigh the potential advantages and disadvantages of consuming coffee while experiencing a cold. For many people, coffee offers the mental clarity and energy needed to tackle daily activities and increase general morale. On the other hand, there are well-documented risks to drinking coffee, especially when dealing with a cold. It is sensible for each person to be mindful of their health and energy levels before deciding to consume coffee. If an individual finds themselves tired and lacking energy, or dealing with worsening symptoms, it is best to go without or to find a milder alternative such as green tea.
Alternatives to Coffee for When You Have a Cold
If you choose to forgo coffee in favor of other, more suitable drinks, there are a variety of options. Teas can come in a variety of flavors and strengths, and will often contain less caffeine and milder stimulation than coffee. Herbal teas are recommended for individuals sick with a cold and providing potential health benefits. For example, congested noses can be relieved with peppermint tea and the antioxidants in green tea help to combat colds. In addition to teas, there are great alternatives such as hot water with lemon or ginger, vegetable juices, and natural, sugar-free hot chocolate.
Should I Drink Coffee When I’m Sick?
So, should you drink coffee when you’re sick, and does coffee help a cold? The answer depends on the individual and whether the pros or cons of drinking coffee while sick outweigh one another. Everyone reacts differently to coffee and the effects of a cold, therefore it is important to be mindful of one’s own health and energy levels. Ultimately, if you choose to drink coffee even though you have a cold, it must be consumed in moderation and without cream, sugar and other unhealthy additions, otherwise the potential benefits can quickly be outweighed.
Other Factors to Consider
It is important to keep in mind that other factors, such as age and daily activities, should also be considered when deciding whether it is okay to drink coffee with a cold. Because of the stimulating properties of coffee, it is typically not advised for elderly individuals and children to consume coffee, especially if they are dealing with a cold. Furthermore, individuals that are often engaging in activities that require energy and attention may want to consider an alternative to coffee. Again, though, what is important to keep in mind is that everyone is different, and thus the effects of coffee on an individual may be different than another.
Making the Decision
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to drink coffee while sick with a cold is a difficult one. However, it can be made easier with knowledge of the potential pros and cons of drinking it. Given the stimulating nature of coffee, it is important to take one’s general health, age, and activity levels into consideration. Furthermore, drinking coffee with a cold should only be done in moderation and without unhealthy additives. When ingested in this way, coffee can be an effective aid in dealing with a cold. But, if an individual finds that it increases symptoms of their cold, or increases discomfort, then it is best to go without it or to find a suitable alternative.
