It is estimated that 83 percent of people in America drink coffee on a regular basis. While coffee is often praised for its health benefits, it is important to note that coffee can have many negative effects on your health. Below is a list of some of the ways that your morning coffee can affect your body:
Stimulate the Production of Hydrochloric Acid
Drinking coffee early in the morning on an empty stomach can stimulate the production of hydrochloric acid. This is problematic because hydrochloric acid is only supposed to be produced when food is being digested. If your body produces hydrochloric acid after you drink coffee, then it may not produce enough hydrochloric acid after you eat a meal. Protein cannot be digested if there is a lack of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. Undigested protein can lead to many digestive issues, including gas and bloating. Furthermore, if your food is not being digested properly, then this can cause other health issues, such as nutritional deficiencies.
Disrupt Your Sleep
A good night's rest is important to your health. However, if you drink coffee, then you may have more trouble falling asleep. Many people rely on coffee to fight daytime fatigue, but this beverage may actually be the cause of your fatigue. Coffee has caffeine, which helps increase alertness. It can also cause anxiety. You may not be able to go to sleep at night because you are feeling anxious.
If you suffer from ulcers, then your condition may be exacerbated by coffee. Ulcers are lesions that form inside of the stomach. Coffee is acidic, and acidic foods and beverages irritate ulcers. Coffee can also damage the inner lining that protects the stomach.
Interfere with Nutrient Absorption
People who drink coffee heavily may have more trouble getting the nutrients that they need. Coffee has been shown to interfere with nutrient absorption. Even if you follow a nutrient-rich diet or take supplements, you may still have trouble getting the nutrients you need if you drink coffee. Coffee makes it harder for the kidneys to retain potassium, magnesium, calcium and other important nutrients. Keep in mind that nearly 70 percent of the American population is deficient in calcium.
Harm Your Teeth
Coffee can harm your teeth in many ways. It can cause stains to accumulate on your teeth. Many people believe that if they add cream to their coffee, then they can prevent the beverage from staining their teeth. However, that is a myth. The acids and pigments are still present in the coffee even if you add cream. Coffee can also cause enamel erosion. The enamel protects your teeth from the damage it can sustain from chewing, biting and grinding. It also insulates your teeth. It is important to note that enamel is not made out of living cells. That is why the body cannot create new enamel once it is gone.
Stimulates the Release of Stress Hormones
The reason you feel energized after you drink coffee is because it causes your body to release cortisol and epinephrine, which are the stress hormones. These chemicals increase your blood pressure and heart rate. This stimulates what is known as the fight or flight response. When your body is in fight or flight mode, your digestion suffers. Mood and digestion are related. If your food is not digested properly, then you are likely to be in a bad mood. This fight or flight response can give you that push you need to get through your day. However, if your body is constantly in fight or flight mode, then your health is likely to suffer.