A Brief History of LDS and Coffee
The Latter-day Saints, commonly known as the LDS Church, has a long-standing reputation of abstinence from alcoholic beverages, tea, and coffee. The word of wisdom, as stated by LDS founder Joseph Smith, was a formal revelation containing instructions to abstain from alcohol, tea, and coffee. This then became part of LDS theology, a full official canon meant to be followed by all members of the church. Besides alcohol, coffee and tea, the LDS church also prohibits addictive substances like tobacco.
In the early days of the church, members were also discouraged from using tea and hot liquid beverages. This may have been due to the fact that Church members lived on a limited budget and often had to purchase these items from non-members. Church leaders wanted to protect the members from potential negative repercussions of coffee or tea consumption.
Studies have suggested that coffee and tea consumption have added benefits such as reducing the risk of certain kinds of cancer and providing antioxidants. However, many Latter-day Saints choose to abstain from these substances largely due to cultural and spiritual reasons. Some members of the Church have continued to abide by this counsel as a personal spiritual endeavor.
Reasons behind LDS abstinence from Coffee
The main reason why Latter-day Saints abstain from coffee is due to the Word of Wisdom, a law of health given by God to the LDS Church through Joseph Smith which states that members should not “hot drinks”, which is interpreted to mean tea, coffee and other caffeinated beverages. This passage suggests that using these beverages is not conducive to ones physical and mental health and so members of the Church must abstain in order to remain in fellowship.
Moreover, LDS members also choose not to drink coffee out of respect for and loyalty to their leaders. Many members have a strong faith in the Church and have been taught from a young age to live according to the Word of Wisdom. By not consuming any products that contradict the teachings of the Church, it is a way for members to demonstrate and live by their devotion to the LDS Church.
Moreover, abstinence from coffee and other substances is an act of sacrifice that helps LDS members to remain in close fellowship and closer to God. By choosing to abstain, members hope that they will be blessed with the blessings that come through the Word of Wisdom.
Additional Health Reasons
People who choose to follow the Word of Wisdom, as well as those who simply abstain from caffeinated beverages, often do so for additional personal health reasons. Studies have suggested that drinking too much coffee can lead to increased stress and anxiety, disrupt sleep, increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease, and weaken bones. Thus some LDS members may choose to avoid drinking caffeine for personal health reasons.
Moreover, members of the LDS Church who abstain from coffee or other caffeinated beverages have also been known to sleep better. Caffeine is a stimulant, and it can give an individual an artificial energy boost that fades away after a few hours. Thus, without relying on caffeine, individuals who abstain can enjoy better, more natural sleep patterns and wellbeing.
Additionally, individuals who refrain from coffee or other caffeine-laden drinks may also find that they have more energy throughout the day. Without relying on the artificial energy boost provided by caffeine, people may rely on their own natural energy levels which may allow them to be more alert and productive throughout the day.
Cultural Considerations
While the health benefits of abstaining from coffee may be undeniable, LDS members may also be choosing abstinence as a matter of cultural consideration. In the LDS culture, abstaining from coffee can be seen as a sign of respect or loyalty to the Church. LDS members may seek to maintain fellowship with the Church and its teachings by abstaining from substances that are forbidden in the Word of Wisdom.
In addition, there may also be an increased sense of belonging amongst those who abide by the Word of Wisdom. When people come together and reaffirm their loyalty to the Church by refraining from consuming certain substances, they may find that they are forging a closer relationship with one another and with the Church.
Further, abstaining from coffee may also be seen as a way of fostering a healthier relationship with food. Although coffee may be a source of energy, it can also be seen as an unhealthy replacement for other foods. Thus, by abstaining from coffee, individuals may be better able to choose nourishing food that will fuel their bodies and minds healthily.
Pros and Cons
Like with any lifestyle choice, there are both pros and cons to the LDS Church’s stance on abstaining from coffee and other caffeinated beverages. On one hand, there are tangible health benefits to be gained from avoiding these substances, such as improved sleep and increased energy levels. Furthermore, members of the LDS Church may also find an increased sense of belonging with their Church and its members by partaking in this act of abstaining.
On the other hand, some Church members may struggle with finding alternatives to coffee, such as decaffeinated options. Additionally, abstaining from coffee may be inconvenient in social situations, such as work events where coffee is often served. However, for those looking to reaffirm their commitment to the LDS Church and to experience the potential health benefits that come with abstaining, the decision to not drink coffee could be well worth it.
Conclusions
While the Word of Wisdom strictly forbids the consumption of coffee or other stimulants, many LDS members choose to abstain from these substances for additional cultural and health reasons. There are both pros and cons to abstaining from coffee, such as improved sleep and increased energy levels, but also potential social inconveniences. Ultimately, it is up to each individual Latter-day Saint to decide what is best for him or her in terms of abstinence.
