While widely known as a magical
elixir effective for increasing focus and lifespan, some may not be able to
reap the benefits.
Coffee can be defined as a health elixir. It has been found to
minimize the chance of prostate cancer, heart failure, and even hearing loss.
In addition, consuming a dark roast may reduce appetite.
However, coffee may have more harmful than positive side effects
for some people. We asked nutritionists about the people that should skip
drinking coffee for better health, and here's what they said. Continue reading.
1. People with IBS.
"Caffeine can increase bowel regularity, including the
probability of diarrhea (a key symptom of irritable bowel syndrome, or
IBS)," explains Angel Planells MS, RDN, a Seattle-based registered
dietitian nutritionist and the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics' National
Media Spokesperson. "So if you have IBS, it is encouraged to limit/avoid
caffeinated beverages."
2. People with Glaucoma.
"According to a recent study, drinking coffee increased
intraocular pressure in those with glaucoma, so it's suggested to limit or
avoid intake, but more research is required," says Planells.
3. People with overactive bladder.
"We all know it is best to avoid a large cup of coffee before
a long trip, especially if restroom breaks are limited. Caffeine intake can
increase both urinary frequency and urgency," says Sue Heikkinen, MS, RD,
registered dietitian for MyNetDiary. "If you don't regularly drink coffee,
you may be even more sensitive to this effect."
4. People with heart conditions, like arrhythmias.
"Because coffee's caffeine can cause temporary increases in
blood pressure and heart rate, anyone with pre-existing heart conditions should
speak with their healthcare provider about whether/how much coffee is safe to
consume," says Kelli McGrane, MS, RD, registered dietitian and Lose It!
nutrition consultant.
5. People who are pregnant.
"To reduce the risk of miscarriage, premature labor, and low
birth weight, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that
pregnant women limit caffeine intake to 200 milligrams (about 2 cups of coffee)
per day," Heikkinen says. "A review published in the British Journal
of Medicine in 2020, however, concluded that there is no safe level of caffeine
intake during pregnancy. Pregnant women should discuss their caffeine intake
with their doctor."
6. People who are breastfeeding.
"As caffeine is a stimulant and diuretic, the concern is that
a breastfeeding mother may be at risk for dehydration," says Planells.
"The American Pregnancy Association suggests avoiding caffeine as much as
possible during pregnancy and breastfeeding."
7. People with sleep disorders.
"It is understandable to reach for a cup of coffee (or more)
after a poor night's sleep, yet your coffee habit may perpetuate a cycle of
poor sleep and fatigue," says Heikkinen. "Even if you don't think
your afternoon coffee affects your sleep, it can. According to the Sleep
Foundation, caffeine must be avoided at least 6 hours before
bedtime."
8. People with high anxiety levels are prone to panic attacks.
"Caffeine is a stimulant, which may increase anxiety in some
people," McGrane explains. "If you regularly experience anxiety or
panic attacks, you may want to consider avoiding or reducing your caffeinated
coffee intake."
9. People with diarrhea.
"Some people swear by their morning cup of coffee to 'get
their bowels moving,' but this effect is not desirable if you are struggling
with diarrhea," says Heikkinen. "Decaf coffee may be less
problematic, although hot liquids, in general, tend to stimulate the
bowels."
10. People with Epilepsy.
"While a limited study, [recent findings showed that] heavy
coffee consumption was associated with increased seizure frequency. But more
studies are needed," says Planells. Consider talking to your neurologist
about your caffeine intake if you have epilepsy.
11. Kids under 12.
"While caffeine can make any of us a little jittery, it can
have more noticeable and even serious side effects at smaller doses in
kids," says McGrane. "For example, too much caffeine in kids can lead
to increased heart rate, increased feelings of anxiety, difficulty
concentrating, and an upset stomach. Another aspect to consider, especially in
toddlers, is that coffee can mask hunger cues, so toddlers may not get the
nutrition that they need for growth and development. Finally, keep in mind that
coffee is highly acidic, which can harm dental enamel and increase the risk of
cavities."
12. People with Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD).
"Caffeine can loosen the lower esophageal sphincter, which is the valve between the esophagus and stomach. This could cause acid stomach contents to enter the esophagus, resulting in uncomfortable GERD symptoms," says Heikkinen. "If you have GERD, see if switching to decaf helps."