Given the widespread use of coffee around the world, it can be hard to imagine who can’t actually drink the beverage. Individuals with certain health conditions, gut disorders and religious beliefs may need to avoid coffee consumption altogether. For those with health issues, coffee consumption can affect energy levels, digestion and heart health. Likewise, coffee consumption is restricted for individuals adhering to specific religious beliefs.
Coffee naturally contains caffeine, a chemical that offers a buzz of energy to people drinking it. However, caffeine is a drug and the effects of this drug vary from person to person. For individuals with certain health issues or diseases, caffeine should be avoided or strictly limited, as it can affect health negatively. People with conditions such as high blood pressure, heart diseases and diabetes should totally avoid drinking coffee. The same applies to individuals suffering from digestive problems, including irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers and Crohn’s disease.
According to a study by the University of Maryland Medical Center, regular consumption of coffee can aggravate the symptoms of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease because of the acidity of coffee. In addition, individuals with anxiety or panic disorder should also not drink coffee, as caffeine can increase the level of anxiety and trigger panic or anxiety attacks. All in all, caffeine should be avoided due to its stimulating effects and it is advisable to seek medical advice to better understand how coffee consumption could potentially affect one’s health.
In addition to health concerns, certain religions keep their followers away from coffee consumption. In Islam, caffeine is considered makruh tahriman, meaning it is disliked and generally avoided by devout Muslims. Islam prescribes five basic duties for its followers, one of which involves abstaining from certain food and drink, such as coffee and tea. In some Judaism sects, strict followers don’t “eat or drink any product of the grapevine,” which makes consumption of coffee forbidden, as coffee is made from beans.
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (aka Mormons) also practice coffee abstinence. Although the church does not strictly forbid coffee consumption, the membership is asked to refrain from it, as part of the faith’s Word of Wisdom. These teachings also extend to other caffeinated beverages and food.
Coffee and Pregnancy
Pregnant women should also avoid drinking coffee, as the stimulant can cross the placenta, potentially leading to multiple health problems. Research suggests that students who drink more than 200 mg of caffeine per day during pregnancy are at higher risk of having a miscarriage. Therefore, most health care professionals recommend pregnant women to avoid caffeinated foods and drinks altogether, including coffee.
Coffee Reaction
Finally, some people may be genetically predisposed to feel certain side effects after drinking coffee. Medication metabolism is linked to genetic expression and some people may not be able to process caffeine efficiently. As a result, they can experience anxiety and jitteriness, which are side effects of too much caffeine.
Alternatives to Coffee
For individuals who should avoid drinking coffee, there are many delicious alternatives. For instance, herbal and fruit teas are caffeine-free and highly popular. Herbal tea is made from any combination of aromatic herbs such as chamomile, peppermint and lemon balm, and can be enjoyed both hot and cold. In addition, Rooibos tea is a naturally caffeine-free tea with a sweet flavor, other similar alternative options include yerba mate, barley tea and wheat tea.
Decaffeinated Coffee
Alternatively, there are decaffeinated options for those who love their coffee but are searching for an alternative that’s free of caffeine. This option is preferable to people who prefer not to give up their morning cup of joe but have health concerns that have dampened their coffee-consumption habits. Decaffeinated coffee is made with a milder version of the caffeinated bean, in which most of the caffeine is removed through a water-based process. Although decaffeinated coffee has less caffeine than regular coffee, it can still cause a minor spike in the energy levels for some people.
Dietary Supplements
For people who wish to increase their energy levels without consuming coffee, many look to dietary supplements. Most dietary supplements are natural, non-addictive and affordable, providing energy without any of the associated risks of coffee. Common elements of supplements include caffeine anhydrous, taurine, B vitamins, guarana, ginseng and green tea extract, all of which can work to increase energy levels and improve concentration. However, it is best to always consult your doctor before taking any supplements, to ensure they won’t interact with any existing medications.
Conclusion
In summary, there are many people who should not drink coffee, whether due to health concerns, religious beliefs, or simply personal preference. Those who wish to take the coffee alternative may opt to drink decaffeinated coffee or other beverages, or choose to take dietary supplements instead. Usually, it’s wise to speak to your doctor before adding any new habits to ensure they won’t interfere with health or well-being. Nonetheless, coffee-free lifestyles don’t have to be dull, providing plenty of caffeine-free alternatives with great tasting options.
