Without a doubt, coffee qualifies as a health panacea. It has been discovered to minimize the chances of hearing loss, heart failure, and possibly prostate cancer. Additionally, consuming a dark roast may even aid in weight loss.
However, for some individuals, the adverse effects of coffee may outweigh the good ones. Here is what dietitians had to say when we questioned them about who should avoid coffee for improved health. Check out What Coffee Does to Your Brain and 5 Drinks The Longest Living People Enjoy Every Day for additional information on healthy eating.
1. People with IBS.
According to Angel Planells, MS, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist in Seattle and a former president of the Washington State Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and Greater Seattle Dietetic Association, caffeine can increase bowel regularity, including increasing the likelihood of diarrhea (a key symptom of irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS).
Therefore, it is advised to restrict or avoid caffeine-containing beverages if you have IBS.
2. People with glaucoma.
“Intraocular pressure increased for those with glaucoma when consuming coffee [according to a recent study], so it’s encouraged to limit/avoid intake, but more research is warranted,” says Planells.
3. People with overactive bladder.
“We are all aware that it is better to avoid drinking a lot of coffee before a lengthy journey, especially if bathroom stops are few and far between. Drinking coffee can make you urinate more frequently and urgently “says trained dietitian Sue Heikkinen, MS, RD, for MyNetDiary.
If you don’t consume coffee frequently, you can be more susceptible to this impact. Check out The Best & Worst Car Snacks for Your Next Roadtrip if you’re organizing a lengthy trip.
4. People with heart conditions, like arrhythmias.
According to Kelli McGrane MS, RD, registered dietitian and Lose It! nutrition consultant, “As the caffeine from coffee can cause temporary increases in blood pressure and heart rate, it’s important for anyone with pre-existing heart conditions to talk with their healthcare provider about whether or how much coffee is safe to consume.”
5. People who are pregnant.
To reduce the risk of miscarriage, early labor, and low birth weight, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology advises pregnant women to keep their daily caffeine intake to 200 mg, or approximately two cups of coffee.
“There is, however, no safe threshold of caffeine consumption during pregnancy, according to an analysis that was published in the British Journal of Medicine in 2020. Women who are expecting should talk to their doctor about their coffee use.”
6. People who are breastfeeding.
A nursing woman may be at risk for dehydration since coffee is a stimulant and diuretic, according to Planells. The American Pregnancy Association advises limiting your use of caffeine when pregnant and during breast-feeding.
7. People with sleep disorders.
Although it is normal to grab for a cup (or more) of coffee after a restless night, Heikkinen warns that developing a coffee habit might make the cycle of restless nights and exhaustion worse.
“Even if you don’t believe that your afternoon coffee impacts your ability to sleep, it still may. According to the advice of the Sleep Foundation, stay away from coffee at least six hours before bed.” Change to one of the 6 Best Teas To Slow Aging, Say Dietitians as an alternative.
8. People with high levels of anxiety or those prone to panic attacks.
“Caffeine is a stimulant, which may worsen anxiety in some individuals,” says McGrane. “If you regularly experience anxiety or panic attacks, you may want to consider avoiding or reducing your caffeinated coffee intake.”
9. People with diarrhea
Heikkinen notes that while some people swear by their daily cup of coffee to “get their bowels flowing,” this impact is not desired if you are experiencing diarrhea. Despite the fact that hot beverages often tend to stimulate the intestines, decaf coffee may be less bothersome.
10. People with epilepsy
“Despite being a small research, recent results revealed a link between frequent strong coffee drinking and seizures. But additional research is required “Planells argues. If you have epilepsy, think considering discussing your coffee intake with your neurologist.
