Why Can’t We Drink Coffee
Coffee has become an integral part of every day life for many people, providing an energy boost for hours of work and play. But for some coffee drinkers, the beverage can be harmful. So why can’t we drink coffee?
High Caffeine Content
Coffee is a potent stimulant, naturally containing caffeine which can affect our body in many ways. Caffeine is a central nervous system stimulant and its effects can be quite extreme when consumed in large quantities. Too much caffeine can cause insomnia, irritability, nausea, elevated heart rate, and jitteriness. Coffee’s caffeine content varies depending on how it’s brewed but it generally ranges from 65-130mg per 8 oz cup.
Heart Health
It is generally accepted that coffee can increase our blood pressure. Studies have shown that caffeine can narrow blood vessels and increase blood pressure. It is important to note that these effects are generally temporary, lasting only a few hours. However, for those with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, regular caffeine consumption may increase the risk of heart problems.
Coffee Addiction
Coffee can be addictive for some people, as caffeine is a stimulant and can cause “withdrawal” symptoms, such as headaches and fatigue. This addiction isn’t necessarily physical, as in chemical dependency;It is more of a psychological addiction. People who suffer from addiction to coffee will find it difficult to go without a cup of their favorite beverage even when they know that it might be bad for their health.
Stomach Ailments
Some studies have shown that drinking too much coffee can contribute to stomach ulcers and gastritis and worsen existing cases. This can be attributed to the fact that coffee is acidic and can damage sensitive stomach lining. Additionally, coffee can stimulate an increase in stomach acid production which can further irritate already irritated lining.
Cancer Risk
Some researchers have claimed that coffee may be linked to an increased risk of cancer but this is yet to be fully verified. There have been studies in both animals and humans which suggest that eating or drinking coffee could increase the risk of certain types of cancer but the evidence is inconclusive.
Pregnancy Complications
When it comes to pregnant women, consuming caffeine can adversely affect the fetus. Research studies have shown that infants born to women who over-consumption of caffeine during pregnancy were more likely to be born prematurely and were at an increased risk of developing certain congenital disabilities.
Risk of Osteoporosis
Research suggests that drinking too much coffee can increase the risk of osteoporosis and decreases the body’s ability to absorb calcium. This is because caffeine has been shown to interfere with hormones like osteocalcin which is responsible for bone formation and loss.
Coffee and Stress
Studies have also shown that excessive coffee consumption can lead to an increase in stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine, which can have a negative impact on our physical and mental health. Chronically high cortisol levels, for example, can cause an increase in appetite, resulting in weight gain, and can also interfere with our sleep patterns.
Dehydration
Coffee is a diuretic which means it can lead to dehydration. It can cause excessive urination, leading to the body getting rid of more water than it is taking in. This can lead to a decrease in energy and make us feel sluggish. It is important to note that moderate coffee consumption shouldn’t be a problem but overdoing it can result in dehydration.
Sleep Deprivation
Coffee is known to increase energy levels and alertness, so it is often used to stay awake when feeling drowsy or sleep deprived. However, drinking coffee late in the day or at nighttime can have the opposite effect and make it difficult to fall asleep. This is because its stimulant effects can linger in the body for up to 8 hours.
Coffee Alternatives
Fortunately, there are many alternatives to coffee for those looking for an energy boost. Tea is a good option as it has less caffeine than coffee, so it won’t provide the same jolt of energy but it still has some stimulating effects. Other alternatives include energy drinks, fruits, and vegetables which contain natural sugars and carbohydrates that can give us a boost.
Ethical Considerations
When considering coffee consumption, it is important to consider the ethical aspects of the beverage’s production. Coffee is one of the world’s largest commodities and one of the few products that is produced and exported by developing countries. In some cases, the conditions in which coffee beans are produced are far from ideal, with workers subjected to low wages, long hours, and unsafe working environments.
Environmental Impact
On top of the ethical considerations, it is important to note the environmental impact of coffee production. Coffee farming can have a detrimental effect on the environment. Intensive farming practices can lead to soil erosion, water pollution, and air pollution due to the use of fertilizers and pesticides. Additionally, deforestation to make way for coffee farms has led to the destruction of natural habitats for many species.
Why Can’t We Drink Coffee? Rethinking Our Relationship With The Beverage
When deciding if we should or should not drink coffee, it is important to consider all the potential risks mentioned above, as well as the ethical and environmental implications. Coffee can offer us an energizing boost but it also has many downsides that can be damaging to our health and the environment. Ultimately, it is up to each individual to decide if drinking coffee is right for them.
