In a spoon – medicine, in a cup – poison. Today we apply the wisdom of ancient physicians to our favorite drink.

After researching the effects of excessive coffee consumption on health, it is clear that a balanced approach to coffee drinking is of great importance. Although coffee offers numerous health benefits when enjoyed in moderation, excessive amounts of coffee can have negative effects on our well-being.

The positive sides of coffee consumption are striking. Moderate amounts of coffee can help improve mental alertness, increase energy levels and reduce the risk of some chronic conditions such as type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and liver disease. Additionally, coffee can act as a powerful source of antioxidants, which fight harmful free radicals in our bodies.

But this applies if we are talking about a “medicine in a spoon” or in that case 1 to 3 cups of coffee per day. However, if you cannot survive a few hours without a coffee break, several unpleasant symptoms may appear. Excessive coffee consumption is associated with a range of health problems, including sleep disorders, anxiety, digestive problems and an increased risk of heart disease. Additionally, too much caffeine can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit.

Signs You’re Drinking Too Much Coffee

• Restlessness, irritability, anxiety: caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and can even cause panic attacks. Too much coffee causes restlessness, irritability and an accelerated heart rate.
• Fatigue and apathy: the more coffee, the shorter the effect of increased energy and strength lasts. And in their place come drowsiness, fatigue and apathy.
• Excessive urination: Coffee is a natural diuretic. It removes water from the body, which is why good coffee houses always serve a glass of pure water with a cup of coffee. And to slow down the flow of fluid, it is recommended to supplement the coffee break with a light snack.
• Nervous twitching, blinking eyes: caffeine causes a release of serotonin, increases the activity of neurotransmitters and norepinephrine. This leads to muscle tension and chaotic functioning of nerve endings.
• Insomnia: If you drink your last cup of coffee less than 6 hours before bedtime, you run the risk of going without sleep at all. Sleep disorders have a negative impact on health, especially on the functioning of the hormonal system and metabolic processes. To avoid problems, it is best not to drink coffee after 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

To reap the benefits of coffee without compromising health, it is crucial to find the golden mean. In general, moderate coffee consumption, which usually amounts to about 3 cups per day, is considered safe for most people. However, it is important to consider individual tolerance and sensitivity to caffeine.

In short, coffee can be a delicious and healthy addition to our daily lives, as long as we consume it in moderation. It is essential to be aware of our personal limits and listen to our bodies to enjoy the benefits of this beloved beverage without any adverse health effects.