As our living conditions improve, coffee is no longer just a drink for the elite; it has become a common beverage in every household. Alongside tea and cocoa, coffee is one of the three major drinks in the world.

But coffee offers more than just caffeine—it contains plant chemicals that can combat oxidative stress, help regulate lipid and sugar metabolism, and improve gut microbiota, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Today, more and more people enjoy coffee for its numerous health benefits.

Why Do More People Love Drinking Coffee?1. Boosts Digestion

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach in the morning can stimulate stomach acid secretion, which may harm delicate stomach lining and potentially cause gastric ulcers or bleeding. Instead, drinking coffee after meals can aid digestion by helping to expel lipids and improving gastrointestinal motility. The soluble fiber in coffee accelerates the movement of food in the intestines, which can alleviate constipation.

2. Enhances Alertness

Coffee’s energizing effect primarily comes from its caffeine content. When we're tired, a substance called adenosine binds to receptors in the brain, making us feel sleepy. Caffeine blocks this process, allowing the brain to stay awake and alert. This is why coffee is a go-to drink for people looking to fend off fatigue and boost concentration.

3. Aids in Weight Loss

Moderate coffee consumption can help accelerate lipid burning, particularly due to its content of chlorogenic acid and caffeine. Chlorogenic acid, a type of polyphenol, promotes lipid metabolism and prevents lipid accumulation, while caffeine speeds up metabolism and stimulates the pancreas to release lipase, helping break down lipids.

4. Slows Down Aging

Coffee can speed up metabolism, which in turn promotes skin metabolism, lightens dark spots, and reduces wrinkles. It is rich in antioxidants that remove free radicals and protect skin cells, helping to maintain skin vitality and delay the aging process.

Who Should Avoid Coffee?1. Children and Teenagers

Children and teenagers are growing rapidly, and excessive coffee consumption can cause anxiety, insomnia, reduced appetite, hyperactivity, and headaches. Therefore, children under the age of 12 should avoid coffee, and teenagers should limit their intake to no more than one cup a day.

2. Pregnant or Breastfeeding Women

Drinking too much coffee during pregnancy can affect fetal movements, increase the risk of low birth weight or premature birth, and, in severe cases, lead to miscarriage. This is because caffeine crosses the placenta and cannot be quickly metabolized by the fetus, potentially harming its health. Additionally, caffeine can pass into mother’s milk, causing sleep disturbances in babies.

3. People with Anxiety or Insomnia

For people suffering from anxiety or insomnia, it’s best to avoid coffee. The caffeine in coffee has a stimulating effect that can exacerbate anxiety symptoms and disrupt sleep. Therefore, those with anxiety, insomnia, or nervous disorders should refrain from consuming coffee.

4. Osteoporosis Patients

Studies show that excessive coffee consumption can inhibit calcium absorption, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. People with low mineral density should be cautious about their coffee intake.

5. Digestive System Disorders

Coffee can stimulate gastric acid secretion, which may worsen conditions such as gastritis, stomach ulcers, duodenal ulcers, or excessive gastric acid production. People with these conditions should limit their coffee intake, especially on an empty stomach.

6. People on Certain Medications

Some medications may interact with caffeine, either enhancing or reducing their effects, which can affect treatment outcomes. If you are undergoing medication treatment, it’s important to avoid coffee or consult your doctor to ensure there are no adverse interactions.

A Word from the Health Experts

For many of us, coffee is a “lifesaver” in our daily routines. Globally, coffee consumption exceeds 100 million bags annually. However, as with anything, moderation is key. It’s recommended that individuals do not exceed 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is roughly equivalent to five cups of coffee. People with caffeine sensitivity should avoid coffee, as symptoms may include rapid heartbeat, headaches, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty sleeping. When drinking coffee, listen to your body and adjust according to your needs.

We hope this article helps you understand the numerous benefits and possible risks of drinking coffee. How do you enjoy your coffee, and do you have any personal experiences to share? Feel free to comment below!