Coffee, the magical elixir, has long been enjoyed as a beverage to improve the mind, activate one’s energy and give them an overall boost to their productivity. It is a near-necessity in many workplaces and university settings. But like any powerful stimulant, it has its drawbacks, especially when consumed during certain life phases. For women, this means one thing: periods. When it comes to periods, it is important to understand that caffeine should not be ingested during this time. Here we’ll look at why coffee should not be a part of your period-survival routine.
The primary reason to avoid coffee during the period phase of your cycle is the effect that caffeine has on your hormones. Hormonal fluctuations which occur during periods can already make menstrual cramps, mood swings and other physical issues worse, and consuming large amounts of caffeine can make those symptoms even worse. The inevitable crash that one experiences after large doses of caffeine can also lead to further emotional instability. While small quantities of caffeine might help alleviate fatigue and soreness, large doses are known to increase one’s anxiety levels.
Caffeine has been linked to stress and anxiety due to its effect on the human body. Caffeine acts as an adrenal stimulator, increasing adrenaline levels in the body. Adrenaline is responsible for our ’fight or flight’ response. When we’re in this state, the body initiates a cascade of hormonal changes that can increase cortisol, a hormone involved in the regulation of blood pressure and stress response. High cortisol levels can induce a number of physical issues in the body,such as headaches and body aches, tiredness and irritability.
Another reason to avoid coffee during certain life phases, such as the period phase of your cycle, is the effect that caffeine has on your sleep cycle. Hormonal fluctuations experienced during periods can already make it difficult to sleep, and consuming too much caffeine can exacerbate this. Caffeine is known to disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle, making it harder for the body to enter and stay in the deep, restorative sleep phases.
Caffeine, in any form, disrupts and alters the body’s electrical signals. Caffeine has a direct effect on your nervous system and your body’s ability to remain balanced. This can lead to an increased risk of panic attacks and other mental health issues. Increased caffeine intake has been linked to higher cortisol levels and higher levels of anxiety. The effects of caffeine can be felt immediately; however, the effects last longer than the caffeine itself. It’s important to note that the effects of caffeine can be felt up to six hours after it has been consumed.
Lastly, it is important to note that caffeine can also have a negative effect on your digestion. Caffeine speeds up the process of digestion and can cause an increase in digestive symptoms such as cramps, bloating, and diarrhoea. This can be especially uncomfortable when combined with the other unpleasant physical symptoms of the period phase of your cycle. Caffeine is known to be a diuretic, which can lead to further dehydration and weakness.
Dehydration
The period phase of your cycle causes increased levels of water retention due to the fluctuations in hormone levels, making it important to stay hydrated. This is why avoiding coffee during this time is so important; coffee is a diuretic, and consuming it can cause dehydration which can further increase menstrual cramps and other symptoms of the period phase. It is best to opt for drinking plenty of water and herbal teas, as this will help keep your body hydrated and can soothe some of the issues associated with periods.
Effects On Nutrients
Nutrients are essential to keep one’s body functioning healthily and assist with the symptoms of the period phase of your cycle. As caffeine acts as a diuretic, it can flush essential nutrients out of your body, leading to fatigue, headaches, and other unpleasant symptoms. Opting for nutrient-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables can provide essential vitamins and minerals which are essential to maintain healthy hormone levels during periods.
Liver Health
The liver is a vital organ in the human body, and its function is essential to maintain healthy hormone levels in the body. The liver helps to filter out toxins and hormones from the body, and caffeine can interfere with the liver’s natural processes. Excessive caffeine consumption can lead to impaired liver function, leading to an increased risk of hormonal issues. Avoiding caffeine during the period phase of your cycle can help prevent this.
Sleep Cycle
Hormonal fluctuations experienced in the period phase of your cycle can already make it difficult to sleep, and consuming coffee can further disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle. Caffeine is known to disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle, making it harder for the body to enter and stay in the deep, restorative sleep phases. It is best to avoid caffeine and opt for a cup of chamomile tea or a warm glass of milk before bed to help promote a restful night’s sleep.
Nutritional Support
During periods it is important to nourish your body with nutritious foods that provide essential vitamins and minerals which are essential to maintain healthy hormone levels. Opting for nutrient-rich foods such as dark leafy greens, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates can provide essential vitamins and minerals which will help to alleviate symptoms of the period phase of your cycle. Avoiding caffeine will also prevent further disruption of your body’s hormones and allow for a more balanced and regular period experience.
Therapy
Mental health during periods is just as important as physical health. The period phase of your cycle can already be an emotionally taxing time due to heightened hormones and physical discomfort. It is important to take time for self-care and relaxation during this time to help relieve stress and anxiety. Taking time to practice meditation, yoga, and other calming activities can provide an outlet for stress and anxiety, allowing the body to restore balance.
