Coffee is one of the most popular beverages around the world. We love its energizing effects and relaxing scent; It is an essential part of our daily routine. However, while many of us enjoy our daily cup, there are some health conditions where coffee may do more harm than good. It’s important to recognize that this is not ideal for everyone, especially those who struggle with certain health conditions. Nutritionist Ritika Kukreja warns in an Instagram post that if you have any of the following health problems, it may be time to reconsider your coffee habits.
Read also:How much tea is too much? Side effects of consuming too much tea
Avoid Coffee If You Have These 5 Conditions
1. Acid Reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
If you suffer from acid reflux or GERD, coffee may aggravate your symptoms. The caffeine and acid in coffee stimulate the production of acid in the stomach, which can increase the likelihood of heartburn and reflux. This may cause discomfort, swelling and chest pain.
What you can do: If you experience frequent acid reflux it’s best to limit or avoid coffee. Instead, opt for herbal teas like chamomile or ginger, which are gentle on the stomach and can help soothe digestive issues.
2. Anxiety or insomnia
Coffee’s caffeine content can be a double-edged sword for people with anxiety or sleep problems. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, which can cause nervousness, increased heart rate, and increased anxiety. For people with anxiety, this can worsen symptoms and make it difficult to relax.
Additionally, caffeine is a stimulant that can interfere with sleep patterns. Consuming coffee late in the day or even in the evening can interfere with your ability to fall asleep or stay asleep.
What you can do: If you experience anxiety or insomnia, try switching to decaffeinated coffee or reducing your coffee intake, especially after 2 p.m. Herbal teas like lavender or valerian root are great choices for relaxation.
3. Iron deficiency anemia
Coffee may interfere with your body’s ability to absorb iron from food, especially when consumed with meals. The tannins in coffee bind with iron and may reduce its bioavailability, potentially leading to deficiency over time.
If you’re already dealing with iron deficiency anemia, it’s especially important to be mindful of when and how much coffee you drink.
What you can do: To reduce the effect of coffee on iron absorption, it is recommended to wait at least one to two hours between drinking coffee and eating food. If you’re struggling with iron deficiency, consider increasing your intake of iron-rich foods like leafy vegetables, legumes and red meat, and talk to your doctor about iron supplements.
Also read: How drinking tea without milk can benefit you, according to top medical body ICMR
4. Pregnancy
During pregnancy, it’s essential to monitor your caffeine intake, as high levels can potentially affect the baby’s growth and development. Studies have shown that excessive caffeine consumption during pregnancy can increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and even miscarriage.
The general recommendation is to limit caffeine intake to 200 mg per day, which is approximately the amount found in a small cup of coffee.
What you can do: Instead of coffee, try drinking warm milk with a splash of saffron or cardamom, which can be soothing and nourishing. There are also many caffeine-free options available, such as herbal teas, that are safe for expectant mothers.
Read also:What is the worst time to drink tea or coffee? expert weight
5. High blood pressure
It has been observed that caffeine causes a temporary increase in blood pressure. For individuals with high blood pressure, this can be risky, as it can lead to further complications, such as increased stress on the heart and blood vessels. Even if you don’t have high blood pressure, excessive caffeine consumption may increase your risk of developing it over time.
What you can do: If you have high blood pressure, it’s important to monitor your caffeine intake. Reducing your consumption or choosing decaffeinated coffee may help keep your blood pressure under control. You may also want to look into other beverages that don’t impact your heart health, such as herbal teas or water infused with fresh fruit.
As always, it is a good idea to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice. By being mindful of your body’s needs, you can enjoy your beverage in a way that supports your overall health and well-being.
