The effects of instant coffee on the body: health risks and precautions

introduction

Instant coffee is a convenient and quick drink that is loved by modern people. However, although instant coffee brings us convenience, it also has some health risks. This article will focus on the impact of instant coffee on the body, explore the possible health problems it may cause, and provide relevant precautions.

Effects on the cardiovascular system

Excessive intake of instant coffee may have a negative impact on the cardiovascular system. Studies have shown that high concentrations of caffeine in instant coffee can lead to increased blood pressure and heart rate. Long-term excessive intake of caffeine may increase the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases such as hypertension and coronary heart disease.

Stimulating effect on the digestive system

Instant coffee contains a lot of irritants, such as tannic acid and choline. These substances promote gastric juice secretion and intestinal motility in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby increasing the burden on the digestive system. Long-term and large-scale intake of instant coffee may cause problems such as excessive stomach acid, stomach pain, and indigestion.

Impact on sleep quality

The caffeine in instant coffee is a stimulant that can stimulate the central nervous system, improve alertness and concentration. Therefore, consuming too much instant coffee at night may cause insomnia or poor sleep quality. People with sensitive constitutions are more susceptible to it.

Challenges to kidney function

Instant coffee contains a high concentration of caffeine, and long-term intake of excessive caffeine will increase the burden on the kidneys. This is because the kidneys need to eliminate excess caffeine and metabolites in the body, which increases their workload. If the kidneys are overloaded for a long time, it may cause abnormal kidney function or even damage.

Other health risks

In addition to the major health issues mentioned above, instant coffee may also bring some other health risks. For example, excessive intake of caffeine may lead to symptoms such as nervous system excitement, increased heartbeat, and hand tremors. In addition, the additives and preservatives in instant coffee may also have a negative impact on the body.

Precautions

Although instant coffee has some health risks, we can still reduce its adverse effects on the body by taking the following precautions:

1. Drink in moderation: Control the amount of instant coffee you consume every day, it is recommended not to exceed 2-3 cups.
2. Avoid drinking on an empty stomach: Drinking instant coffee after eating can reduce the burden of its irritation on the gastrointestinal tract.
3. Choose low-caffeine products: There are some low-caffeine or decaffeinated instant coffee options on the market.
4. Pay attention to personal reactions: People with sensitive constitutions should pay special attention to their reactions to instant coffee and adjust their intake as needed.

in conclusion

Although instant coffee brings us convenience, its impact on the body cannot be ignored. Excessive intake of instant coffee may have a negative impact on the cardiovascular system, digestive system, sleep quality and kidney function. Therefore, while enjoying instant coffee, we should pay attention to drinking it in moderation and follow relevant precautions to protect our health.

References

[1] Smith A. Effects of caffeine on human behavior. Food Chem Toxicol. 2002;40(9):1243-1255.

[2] Higdon JV, Frei B. Coffee and health: a review of recent human research. Crit Rev Food SCi Nutr. 2006;46(2):101-123.

[3] Nehlig A, DEbry G. Caffeine and sports activity: a review [in French]. Arch Mal coeur Vaiss. 1994;87(8):1073-1077.