Coffee can provide temporary relief from cold symptoms due to its caffeine content, but hydration is crucial, so balance it with plenty of water.
When you’re battling a cold, every sip matters. Coffee – your daily energizer – might not be the best choice during illness. While it offers some benefits, the drawbacks often outweigh them when your body needs healing.
The Pros of Drinking Coffee While Sick
Coffee isn’t all bad when you’re under the weather. Here’s when it might help:
1. Energy Boost When You Need It
The caffeine in coffee can provide a temporary energy lift if you’re dragging but still functional. A study in Psychopharmacology found caffeine improves alertness in sleep-deprived individuals – similar to how you feel when sick.
2. Antioxidant Power
Coffee contains polyphenols that fight inflammation. A 2014 study in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research showed coffee antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress – useful when fighting infection.
3. Mood Enhancement
The stimulant effect can temporarily improve the blues that often accompany illness. Research in JAMA Internal Medicine links coffee consumption to lower depression risk.
The Cons of Coffee During Illness
These drawbacks make coffee questionable when sick:
1. Dehydration Risk
Caffeine is a mild diuretic. While moderate intake (2-3 cups) won’t dehydrate regular drinkers, those with fever, vomiting or diarrhea should avoid it. The best hydrating options include herbal teas or diluted juices.
2. Sleep Disruption
Recovery requires rest. Caffeine’s 5-hour half-life means afternoon coffee can impair sleep quality when you need it most. A 2013 study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found caffeine consumed even 6 hours before bedtime significantly disrupts sleep.
3. Digestive Irritation
Coffee stimulates gastric acid secretion. Research in Digestive Diseases and Sciences shows it can worsen symptoms for those with sensitive stomachs or acid reflux – common with colds.
Better Alternatives to Coffee When Sick
Consider these gentler options:
| Beverage | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Ginger tea | Reduces nausea, fights inflammation |
| Warm lemon water | Hydrates, provides vitamin C |
| Chamomile tea | Promotes relaxation and sleep |
| Bone broth | Provides electrolytes and nutrients |
For those missing their coffee ritual, try low-acid coffee options or half-caf blends.
When Coffee Might Be Okay
Consider these guidelines:
- If you’re a regular coffee drinker with mild cold symptoms
- When consumed in small amounts (1 cup) early in the day
- If paired with extra water intake
- When you have no fever or digestive issues
According to Healthline, moderate coffee consumption (2-3 cups) doesn’t significantly dehydrate regular drinkers. However, the Theraflu medical team recommends avoiding it with severe colds or flu.
The Bottom Line
While coffee has some benefits, your body prioritizes hydration and rest when fighting illness. For most people with colds, temporarily reducing or eliminating coffee supports faster recovery. When you’re back to health, you can return to your regular brew.
