While coffee offers many benefits, it's important to understand potential risks and side effects, especially with excessive consumption.
Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, which can cause anxiety, nervousness, and restlessness in sensitive individuals or when consumed in large amounts.
Consuming coffee, especially later in the day, can interfere with sleep quality and quantity. Caffeine can make it harder to fall asleep and reduce overall sleep quality.
Coffee's acidic nature can trigger heartburn, acid reflux, and stomach discomfort in some people. It may also increase gastric acid production, worsening symptoms in those with ulcers.
Caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure and heart rate, which may be dangerous for people with heart conditions or high blood pressure.
Regular coffee consumption can lead to physical dependence, with withdrawal symptoms like headaches, irritability, and fatigue when coffee intake is reduced.
Although moderate coffee consumption does not significantly dehydrate the body, excessive intake can have a diuretic effect contributing to mild dehydration.
Coffee can interfere with the absorption of certain minerals like iron and calcium, potentially contributing to deficiencies in people with marginal intake.
Though rare, consuming very high amounts of caffeine can lead to caffeine overdose, with symptoms including rapid heartbeat, confusion, and in extreme cases, seizures.
High caffeine intake during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and low birth weight. Most health authorities recommend limiting intake.
The tannins in coffee can cause teeth discoloration and staining over time, affecting the appearance of your smile.
Caffeine can trigger the release of stress hormones like cortisol, potentially exacerbating stress responses and anxiety in susceptible individuals.
Coffee can interact with certain medications, either enhancing or diminishing their effects. This includes antibiotics, antidepressants, and asthma medications.
Some research suggests that high coffee consumption might be associated with reduced bone density and increased risk of fractures, particularly in people with inadequate calcium intake.
Regular coffee drinkers develop tolerance to caffeine, requiring increasing amounts to achieve the same energizing effects, which can lead to a cycle of higher consumption.
For some people with diabetes or insulin resistance, coffee can temporarily raise blood sugar levels, making blood glucose management more challenging.