Coffee and Lupus
Living with lupus can be a very trying experience. Everyday life can be unpredictable and dealing with the side effects associated with the disease can be incredibly difficult. There’s been a lot of discussion recently around the potential positive effects that coffee may have on lupus, so we sought to answer the question: Is coffee good for lupus?
The Benefits of Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant drug found in coffee, tea, energy drinks and sodas. It has an array of known benefits such as cognitive performance benefits, increased energy levels, increased alertness and improved exercise performance. Research has also shown that caffeine has anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for those with lupus.
The Potential Negative Effects of Coffee for Lupus Sufferers
Unfortunately, despite its potential benefits, coffee can also have some negative effects when it comes to lupus. This includes exacerbating the fatigue that many lupus sufferers experience due to the disease. Additionally, caffeine is a diuretic and has been shown to increase urination, which can be problematic for lupus sufferers as they may already be battling dehydration due to their medications.
Finally, caffeine can also interfere with some lupus medications, which can potentially render them ineffective. Therefore, it is important to speak to a doctor before consuming caffeine if you are taking any lupus medications.
Conclusion
Overall, while it is possible to benefit from the potential anti-inflammatory effects of caffeine, taking the time to consider the potential drawbacks associated with drinking coffee is just as important.
- Caffeine can have many benefits for lupus sufferers such as increased energy levels and improved alertness.
- It is important to be aware of the potential negative effects of caffeine which include exacerbating fatigue, increasing urination and interfering with lupus medications.
- It is important to speak to your doctor before consuming caffeine if you are taking any lupus medications.
