Coffee - healthy or unhealthy?

Are you one of those who drink a lot of coffee or do you only enjoy a cup every now and then?

Most people probably claim that they do not drink much coffee. The reasons for this are also different. Often taste, increased concentration, improved physical performance and digestive support are the most important things.

➤ But is this kind of stimulant really good for our health?

If you take a closer look at the effects of the caffeine it contains on the body, the supposed benefits such as energy generation or digestive support can be refuted. So should we therefore avoid it altogether?

But one thing at a time.

What is clear is that coffee does have its advantages. It makes us feel more alert, more concentrated and ready to perform better. And not everyone has to go through coffee withdrawal. However, if you find out that you can't function without your daily coffee, or if you become nervous, anxious or irritable, you should think about it.

➤ Almost 60% of coffee lovers drink a cup several times a day!

What is the problem with caffeine?

1. Caffeine - a drug?

The consumption of caffeine is increasing worldwide. And we are not only consuming coffee, but also other drinks that contain caffeine. Caffeine is a psychoactive substance and acts on us like a drug. Even a low coffee consumption, such as 1 cup a day, can cause withdrawal symptoms. Depending on how sensitive you are to caffeine.

The problem is that regular coffee consumption exhausts the adrenal glands, because adrenaline is constantly produced. At some point you need more and more coffee or caffeine to get the same effect - just like with other drugs.

➤ Caffeine is considered the most used drug in the world!

2. Caffeine stresses us

Caffeine stimulates our adrenal glands to produce adrenaline. The stress hormone has always been important for our survival, as it puts us in fight or flight mode. So when we drink coffee, the caffeine it contains feigns a threat. The body prepares itself for it and lets the blood sugar level rise to release additionally needed energy. In reality, however, we are not in danger and do not have to fight or flee. A constant intake of caffeine leads our body into a permanently unnecessary stress situation.

3. Too much caffeine leads to poisoning

Caffeine poisoning is a recognized clinical syndrome. Depending on one's own developed tolerance, it can occur at about 4-7 cups of coffee per day - earlier for some, later for others. Poisoning is defined by specific symptoms that occur as a direct result of heavy caffeine consumption. These include anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, gastrointestinal complaints, heart rhythm disorders and more.

4. Without caffeine we feel lack of energy

Caffeine gives us a quick energy kick. But in the long run it consumes our body. Because caffeine does not actually provide us with energy, but only stimulates the formation of energy. This leads to heavy strain on the adrenal glands. In order to maintain the energy level, it is necessary to constantly replenish it. However, as we all know, after the high comes the fall and we find ourselves in a real energy low from which we have difficulty getting out without a supply. Caffeine therefore leads to our energy reserves being used up faster.

5. Caffeine promotes stomach problems

The best known stomach problem caused by coffee is acidosis. This is because coffee or caffeine is considered to be a highly acid-forming food. Coffee also has a laxative effect. However, when coffee is withdrawn, the body can no longer count on it and the next problem arises: constipation.

6. Caffeine is not suitable for risk groups

Coffee or the caffeine it contains is unsuitable for diabetics because the release of the stress hormone adrenaline raises the blood sugar level. Blood sugar fluctuations are the result.

Coffee can also have an unfavorable effect on cardiovascular diseases, as caffeine increases the heart rate. The body believes that it is in a dangerous situation.

➤ Diabetics should avoid caffeine!

Gain energy without coffee - how does that work?

1.) Take enough and above all the right nutrients

These help in a natural and simple way to supply the body with energy.

• Maca: has a positive effect on the energy level of the body. People who use Maca report that they feel more energetic. Compared to coffee, Maca has a gentler effect and the blood sugar level is also stabilized.
• Cordyceps: is considered to be an energy-giving adaptogen and helps in cases of chronic exhaustion or weakness. The mushroom is especially popular among athletes to increase performance.
• Ashwagandha: is also a natural adaptogen. It promotes stress reduction, a restful sleep and brings more energy.
• B vitamins: are responsible for the conversion of food into energy. They help to maintain a normal energy level.
• Iron: Caffeine prevents iron absorption and is therefore considered the main cause of fatigue. This is because caffeine inhibits the red blood cells in their important task, the transport of oxygen.
• Magnesium: Without magnesium, our body cannot produce energy. The mineral is involved in energy metabolism and is considered the fuel for our body.

2.) Sleep sufficiently

If we sleep enough, we feel rested and fit the next day. A lack of sleep leads to poorer cognitive performance and reduced motor skills.

3.) Doing sports regularly

Physical exercise helps to refuel energy in the long term, as the metabolism is boosted. Just one daily walk makes a difference. Get active!

Conclusion:

Coffee or caffeine stimulates the adrenal glands, releasing adrenaline. This gives our body a short-term energy boost. A constant replenishment puts a strain on the adrenal glands. As a result, the body is completely drained, exhausted and tired by the artificially induced stimulation.

Switch to natural energy suppliers. Sports and sleep are most effective in combination with the right nutrients. Stop overexploiting your own body, but give it what it needs to start the day with full energy!