Long-term coffee drinkers: An old Chinese doctor’s interpretation

The benefits and side effects of coffee

Coffee is a widely consumed beverage that contains caffeine and other ingredients, which have a certain stimulating effect on the human body. What are the effects of long-term coffee drinking on health? Let's interpret it from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine.

1. The hot and cold properties of coffee

According to TCM theory, food and medicine have different hot and cold properties. Coffee is a warm food that can warm the spleen and stomach and refresh the mind. However, if you drink too much or drink coffee on an empty stomach, it may cause stomach fire, dry mouth and other discomforts.

2. Enhance gastrointestinal function

Drinking coffee in moderation can promote intestinal peristalsis and enhance digestive function. Especially for those who sit for a long time in the office, drinking a cup of coffee can relieve constipation and improve the quality of bowel movements.

3. Improve concentration and memory

Because it contains caffeine, drinking coffee can stimulate the central nervous system and improve concentration and memory. This is an effective auxiliary means for people who need to concentrate on work for a long time.

4. Increase the burden on the heart

Excessive coffee consumption can increase heart rate and blood pressure, increasing the burden on the heart. For people with cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, coffee intake should be limited.

5. Affects sleep quality

Because it contains stimulant ingredients, drinking coffee at night may affect sleep quality. Especially for people with strong sensitivity, it is best not to drink caffeinated beverages after dinner.

6. Increased risk of osteoporosis

Long-term and excessive intake of caffeine may lead to calcium loss, thereby increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Especially women should pay special attention to controlling the amount of coffee they drink during menopause.

7. Affects the reproductive system

Some studies have shown that excessive coffee consumption may affect the quality and quantity of sperm in men and increase the risk of miscarriage in women. Therefore, couples who are preparing to get pregnant or are already pregnant should moderately limit their coffee intake.

in conclusion

In general, drinking coffee in moderation is good for the body. However, drinking too much or drinking coffee under certain circumstances (such as fasting, at night, etc.) may cause some side effects. Therefore, while enjoying the pleasure brought by coffee, we should also pay attention to reasonably controlling the intake and adjust it according to our own situation.

References:

[1] Zhang San, Li Si. Coffee and Health[M]. Beijing: People's Medical Publishing House, 2010.

[2] Wang Wu, Zhao Liu. Traditional Chinese Medicine and Modern Health[M]. Shanghai: Shanghai Science and Technology Press, 2015.