What are the side effects of excessive coffee consumption and how to prevent it?

Question

Hi doctor,

My husband is 37 years of age. He drinks coffee 3 to 4 times a day. He is very addicted to coffee and I am afraid that it would spoil his health very soon. Can he drink coffee thrice with excess sugar every day? What are the bad effects of over-drinking coffee? How to slowly reduce or choose any better alternative to coffee? He is not having any health issues and is not under any medications. Please suggest.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Yes, something hot and nutritious during cold makes us feel good after consuming because the body is struggling to manage body temperature but overconsumption of it can lead to irritating throat and esophagus and sometimes stomach ulcer due to dehydration. Drinks like tea, coffee, beer, and other alcoholic drinks lead to dehydration and are high in caffeine can affect mental health too. Here are a few alternatives to it.

Prefer decaffeinated coffee mild twice a day with 2% milk.
Consume a lot of ginger and garlic in soups or teas. These have anti-viral properties. Ginger turmeric water or tea is a great option. Raw garlic or ginger with honey can soothe a sore throat.
Fresh or dry turmeric has curcumin which is a great antibiotic and antiseptic. Consume turmeric milk or tea with a pinch of pepper.
A concoction of tulsi, ginger, peppercorn, and cloves, boiled with water, and adding pure honey is a good option too.
Cut down on foods and drinks laden with sugar as sugars destroy the body's ability to fight infections.
Last but not least, stay well hydrated with water, detox waters, soups, etc.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.