What are the negative effects of drinking too much coffee?
Disease description:
Recently, I've been working overtime a lot and drinking coffee frequently. Are there any negative effects on the body from drinking too much coffee?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Excessive coffee consumption can have various negative effects on the body. From a neurological perspective, caffeine in coffee blocks adenosine receptors, and excessive intake can continuously stimulate the central nervous system, leading to insomnia, anxiety, irritability, headaches, and even symptoms of sympathetic nervous system overactivity such as palpitations and hand tremors.
Regarding the digestive system, caffeine stimulates gastric acid secretion. Drinking large amounts may irritate the gastric mucosa, causing stomach pain and acid reflux, and long-term consumption may increase the risk of gastric ulcers. Additionally, it accelerates intestinal motility, which may cause diarrhea in some individuals.
On the metabolic and cardiovascular level, coffee has a diuretic effect, and excessive consumption can lead to dehydration. It may also interfere with calcium absorption, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. Caffeine can temporarily elevate blood pressure, which is detrimental for individuals with hypertension, and long-term heavy consumption may increase the burden on the heart.
Moreover, caffeine is addictive, and abrupt cessation may result in withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. It is generally recommended that adults consume no more than 400 mg of caffeine per day.
