Is Coffee Good When You Have a Cold?
Having a cold can make you feel pretty lousy. And depending on the severity, it’s often advised to get some rest and stay hydrated. But what about drinking coffee? Is it beneficial when you’re trying to fend off a cold?
Pros:
- Vitamin C: Coffee is a great source of Vitamin C. This vitamin helps boost your immune system and fight off those pesky cold germs.
- Caffeine: A cup of hot coffee can give you a much-needed boost of energy when you’re feeling weak and rundown. Caffeine helps bouts of fatigue and can also help with mental alertness.
- Antioxidants: Coffee is very high in antioxidants. These can help reduce inflammation and keep your immune system in tip-top shape.
Cons:
- Dehydration: Coffee is a diuretic, so it can make you even more dehydrated when you’re already suffering from the effects of a cold.
- Caffeine Sensitivity: If you’re sensitive to caffeine, coffee may not be the best choice when you’re feeling under the weather. Caffeine can cause nausea, heart palpitations, and other unpleasant side effects.
- Acidic: Coffee is very acidic and can upset your stomach when you’re already dealing with cold symptoms. This can worsen the feeling of nausea and discomfort.
Conclusion:
So, is coffee good when you have a cold? The answer is that it can be beneficial, but it’s important to consider your individual symptoms and whether they’re aggravated by drinking coffee. If you are dehydrated and/or sensitive to caffeine, it’s probably best to avoid it. If your cold isn’t too severe and you’re not experiencing any of the complications listed above, a moderate amount of coffee can be beneficial to aid in recovery.
