Study on the TCM properties and side effects of coffee

This article discusses the effects of coffee in TCM and possible side effects. From a TCM perspective, coffee is believed to be refreshing, but long-term excessive drinking may have negative effects on the body. Coffee may cause insomnia, palpitations, and even affect the digestive system. Although coffee has a refreshing effect, it should be consumed in moderation to avoid excessive dependence. This article aims to remind readers to pay attention to the side effects of coffee, drink it reasonably, and stay healthy.

With the quickening pace of modern life, coffee, as a refreshing drink, has been loved by more and more people. Walking on the streets, you can see coffee shops everywhere and the aroma of coffee can be found everywhere. Discussions about coffee have never stopped. Among them, people are most concerned about the properties and effects of coffee and possible side effects. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, coffee is a special existence. This article will explore this issue in detail.

1. The TCM properties of coffee

In traditional Chinese medicine theory, it is important to emphasize the unity of man and nature, and that all things have their own properties. As an imported beverage, coffee is inevitably scrutinized by traditional Chinese medicine. Coffee tastes bitter, slightly sweet, and is slightly cold in nature. This property determines its position in the traditional Chinese medicine system.

Coffee has the effect of refreshing the mind, which is due to the caffeine in it. For people who are listless and tired, drinking coffee in moderation can have a refreshing effect. Coffee can also promote gastrointestinal motility and aid digestion. It has a certain improvement effect on people with loss of appetite and indigestion.

2. Side Effects of Coffee

Although coffee has certain positive effects, its side effects cannot be ignored if consumed without moderation.

1. Palpitations and insomnia : Since the caffeine in coffee can excite the nerves, long-term and excessive drinking can lead to problems such as palpitations and insomnia. For people who are already restless and prone to insomnia, drinking coffee may aggravate the symptoms.

2. Gastrointestinal discomfort : Although coffee can promote digestion, drinking it on an empty stomach or drinking too much can also irritate the gastric mucosa, causing stomach pain, bloating and other discomforts.

3. Impact on calcium absorption : Certain ingredients in coffee may affect the body's absorption of calcium. Long-term and excessive drinking may increase the risk of osteoporosis.

4. Aggravate dampness and heat : Since coffee is slightly cold in nature, long-term drinking may aggravate dampness and heat in the human body. People with a hot constitution should be more cautious when drinking it.

3. Drink coffee properly

Since coffee has the above-mentioned side effects, how should we drink it reasonably?

1. Control the amount of drinking : Moderation is the key. Generally, it should not exceed three cups a day. For special groups, such as pregnant women, children, the elderly and people with certain chronic diseases, they should reduce or avoid drinking.

2. Master the drinking time : Try to avoid drinking coffee at night to avoid affecting your sleep. It is best to drink it during the day or after meals to reduce irritation to the gastrointestinal tract.

3. Individual differences : Different people have different tolerance to coffee, so they should adjust the amount they drink according to their physical condition.

4. Pair with other drinks : You can pair it with some drinks that have a blending effect, such as green tea, chrysanthemum tea, etc., to alleviate the side effects of coffee.

As a common drink in modern life, the properties, functions and side effects of coffee are worthy of our in-depth exploration. From the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine, only by drinking coffee reasonably and taking advantage of its strengths and avoiding its weaknesses can its positive effects be brought into play and its side effects be avoided. I hope this article can provide some useful references for coffee lovers.