I was a self-proclaimed coffee addict. After graduating university it seemed like my youth left me as I began working in a full time job. The early mornings needed a kickstart and a black coffee was my go to. Then in the afternoon slump I would need a top up. However what started out as two cups a day turned into 4-5.
6am coffee
9am coffee
1pm coffee
4pm coffee
Lucky for me I was so exhausted that I could sleep on cue. But the cycle of waking up exhausted and needing more coffee was tough to break.
Ironically the thing we turn to for a quick boost of energy can end up making us feel more tired to begin with. Sugar and caffeine. It’s not the caffeine crash that I’m talking about.
Excessive caffeine consumption puts you at risk of nutrient deficiencies
Your initial response may be to supplement these vitamins and minerals with powders, tablets or capsules. However you could be literally flushing your money down the toilet.
The Negative Effects Of Coffee On Micronutrients
VITAMIN D
Vitamin D receptors are inhibited by caffeine. As Vitamin D helps the body with calcium absorption and utilisation, caffeine has the potential to prevent the building of strong bones. A study in 2001 of elderly women showed a link between caffeine consumption of over 300mg per day to accelerated bone loss in older women. In addition many studies showing there is an increased risk for osteoporosis and bone fracture, when three or more cups of coffee are consumed.
B VITAMINS
Caffeine acts as a dietetic which proves to be problematic for water-soluble vitamins. The concentration of B vitamins in the body will be significantly decreased due to the fluid loss and frequent urination. In addition B1’s metabolism in the body is also negatively affected by caffeine.These nutrients are responsible for correct energy metabolism.
VITAMIN C
This vitamin is also water-soluble. Vitamin C helps iron to be absorbed by the body.
IRON
This nutrient can help to prevent tiredness and fatigue. However iron has no chance at doing its job once coffee becomes involved. Studies have shown that caffeine can reduce the absorption of coffee by nearly 80%! Tannins, found in coffee and black tea, bind to iron and inhibit its absorption in the intestines. The upshot is that anaemia, fatigue, reduced metabolism is caused by iron deficiency.
But wait! While it may seem that the list of negatives greatly outweigh the wonderful energy boost, there’s more that you should know.
Coffee isn’t all doom and gloom
There are a few centurions that praise coffee for allowing them to live to such grand ages. This has been backed by scientific studies which show a link between coffee consumption to longer life. While the recommended amount per day is not made clear, some say one a day, others say up to five. So what’s so great about coffee?
Benefits Of Coffee
BRAIN POWER
The anti-oxidants found in coffee help to prevent brain cell damage can prevent Parkinson’s disease and dementia.
PREVENT DIABETES
There is evidence to suggest that coffee may be able to prevent diabetes. Its helps to regulate blood sugar by boosting cell’s sensitivity to insulin.
WEIGHT LOSS
Coffee fights excess bulge in a two pronged attack:
- Energy on another level
The stimulant effect of caffeine can help give you superhero-like energy. This can help you to blaze through the gym and push yourself harder and faster to your desired results.
- Speeding up your metabolism
Coffee helps you to burn fat by stimulating the lipolysis process.
STOMACH ACID PRODUCTION
Coffee can help to aid digestion due to it stimulating hydrochloric acid production in the stomach. This helps to absorb the vitamin B12. However it is important to note that drinking coffee first thing in the morning on an empty stomach will decrease the quantity of hydrochloric acid available for digestion later on in the day. If you make a habit of consuming a bucket load of coffee, your stomach may be inhibited from properly digesting and utilising protein.
The Coffee Takeaway
All in all there’s no need to vow never to drink coffee again. But it is definitely work taking a look at your consumption. Timing is everything. To get the absolute best out of your nutritious meal or supplement, consume them 30 minutes to an hour before your cup of joe.
Why not try limiting your coffee consumption to one a day? Then swapping for green tea. Green tea contains barely any tannins and the amount of caffeine in it is significantly less than coffee.
Your body will thank you!
