Physical Reasons
People who suffer from anorexia nervosa are often reported to have a strange dietary behaviour, where they prefer to consume mostly drinks and little nutrition from solid food. Coffee is usually the main beverage chosen, as it provides a feeling of fullness without contributing to the daily calorie intake.
Coffee can present a risk to those with anorexia, as it contains caffeine which can increase alertness, and push those with the disorder to go to extremes when it comes to exercise and daily activities. It can also interfere with powerful dieting techniques, like fasting or skipping meals, since coffee can act as a stimulant and appetite suppressant.
The general consensus around this peculiar behaviour is that it is likely due to physical deficiencies caused by the disorder, such as low energy levels and a poor nutritional status. Coffee is more beneficial than food because it takes less energy to digest and cause far less acid production in the digestive system.
Psychological Reasons
Anorexia nervosa is a psychological disorder which affects one’s physical health, where diet and exercise become abnormal to the point where one is not able to maintain a healthy diet. In addition to having a physical deficiency, those suffering from anorexia also suffer from a distorted body image. This means that it may be difficult for them to believe that a healthy diet is achievable, hence they can resort to consuming coffee instead.
According to some mental health experts, those living with anorexia are often looking for an easy way to cut calories, even if it means replacing meals with coffee. Coffee may also boost alertness and provide a distraction from the disorder or act as a form of pain relief, providing comfort in an otherwise difficult situation. This can make it difficult to break the coffee habit and switch back to a regular balanced diet.
Lack Of Nutrition Knowledge
Those living with anorexia are often the ones who have the least knowledge about nutrition and how their body works. This means that they may not be aware of the potential dangers that coffee might pose, and if anything can view it as a way of controlling their disorder in a safe manner.
Due to the lack of nutrition knowledge, people with anorexia may mistakenly believe that coffee is all they need to get adequate nutrition. Coffee does contain nutrients and antioxidants, but these are not enough to maintain a healthy lifestyle. In addition, reliance on coffee is also associated with increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.
Pressure From Media
The media has a huge impact on society and can be a powerful source of pressure when it comes to the perception of health and beauty. Images of underweight, ‘perfect’ celebrities are constantly present in the media, which can lead those living with anorexia to believe they should look and be the same.
Ads and films promoting coffee drinking may be further enticed, making it seem like this is the only way to maintain a slim physique. This can be particularly harmful when it comes to those with anorexia since they may not be aware of the potential dangers of relying on coffee over food.
Alternatives for Anorexics
The main goal when treating and helping those living with anorexia should be to ensure the safest way to regain health. Contrary to what they may believe, abstaining from solid food and relying on coffee instead should not be the main approach.
Alternative remedies such as counseling and nutritional education are of utmost importance in helping those affected by anorexia. Gradually reintroducing solid food and providing adequate nutrition can help the physical state, whilst providing emotional support and learning of healthy nutrition is key for the psychological aspect.
Potential Harmful Health Effects
The main concern with those living with anorexia drinking a lot of coffee is the potential to develop chronic health problems. Caffeine, when consumed in high quantities, can cause palpitations, insomnia and an increase in blood pressure. It is also important to be aware that coffee has a diuretic effect, which can lead to dehydration and, in the long run, will not do any good for one’s physical health.
Moreover, those suffering from anorexia may not be aware that coffee consumption can cause depression or anxiety. This may interfere with their recovery, as they become overwhelmed with negative thoughts and emotions.
Excessive Caffeine Consumption
Excessive coffee consumption can lead to the development of coffee dependency and addiction, which can be particularly problematic for those with anorexia. The development of addiction may prevent recovery, as the disorder becomes associated with coffee and emotional comfort.
Right after caffeine intake, one may feel more alert, but it may soon give way to a feeling of pessimism, as caffeine is a stimulant that can increase anxiety and revitalise bad feelings instead of good ones. This further encourages the urge to consume coffee as a way of ‘coping’.
Effects on Major Organs
Reliance on coffee for nutrition can have a significant effect on one’s health. It is important to note that coffee can interfere with the absorption of certain nutrients, in major organs such as the brain, heart and liver. This can lead to nutrient deficiencies and compromise the functionality of these organs.
Similarly, coffee can act as a diuretic, leading to increased levels of urination and electrolyte imbalance. This can become very risky in those with anorexia since dehydration can further compromise one’s physical state.
Inadequate Metabolism
Coffee has been known to speed up the metabolism and increase alertness, however, this is not the case for those with anorexia. Those suffering from anorexia have an inadequate metabolism which is not capable of processing large amounts of coffee or food.
Caffeine intake can cause increased levels of gastric acid secretion, leading to a feeling of fullness or even nausea. Ingestion of caffeine can also cause a surge in cortisol levels and extreme fatigue as soon as the effects of the stimulant wear off.
Conclusion
In summary, it is important to bear in mind that coffee is certainly not the right choice for those affected by anorexia. Coffee can mask the physical and psychological symptoms of the disorder, but can be dangerous in the long run. Relying on coffee for nutrition is not a safe way to cope with anorexia and should be avoided.
