Coffee Love affair: When Our Beloved Brew Bites Back

Coffee Love affair: When Our Beloved Brew Bites Back

I recently read an article in the New York Post titled: “Caffeinated ‘workout queen’ dies from heart attack at 28…” The article referenced the death of Florida teacher Katie Donnell. Ms. Donnell was known to be committed to a healthy lifestyle; however, her mother shared that she often drank three energy drinks a day and took a caffeine supplement before hitting the gym. (https://nypost.com/2025/03/25/health/caffeinated-workout-queen-dies-from-heart-attack-at-28/)

We love our cup of Joe so much that we rarely consider it’s negative impact. If we are honest we can admit that for many of us, the day doesn’t begin until that first glorious sip of coffee. I limit myself to one cup in the morning, but if I’m honest, although it’s only one cup a day, I feel noticeably different when I don’t have it. (And not in a good way.)

Whether it’s a bold espresso, a frothy latte, or your signature chocolate mocha from Starbucks, our love for coffee runs deep. Coffee is more than a beverage—it’s a ritual, a comfort, and in many ways, a part of our identity. (Do you feel a bit smug when you order your drink, with all your little special ingredients, with the lingering memory of earlier days when you couldn’t timely pay your bills but now you can buy coffee for five dollars? You don’t? Uh, well me neither.)

From the early morning drive-thru runs to the mid-afternoon pick-me-up, sipping coffee is ingrained in our culture. It soothes us during stressful moments, sparks creativity in brainstorming sessions, and even serves as the backdrop to our most cherished conversations. And let’s not forget the highly specific ways we order it: “Half-caff, extra hot, no foam, oat milk vanilla latte with a pump of caramel”—sound familiar?

We love our coffee. But like any love story, it has its complications.

While moderate coffee consumption can offer some benefits like alertness and antioxidants, overindulgence has its downsides. Here are four key ways coffee can negatively impact our health:

Sleep Disruption

Caffeine is a stimulant that can linger in your system for up to 8 hours. Drinking coffee late in the day can interfere with your natural sleep cycle, leading to poor rest and daytime fatigue, ironically making you crave more coffee.

Increased Anxiety and Heart Rate

Too much caffeine can trigger or worsen anxiety, cause jitteriness, and even lead to rapid heartbeat or palpitations. If you’re already prone to stress, high caffeine intake may not be your best friend.

Digestive Issues

Ever notice that your morning coffee sometimes comes with a side of tummy trouble? That’s because caffeine increases stomach acid, which can cause acid reflux or upset stomachs in sensitive individuals.

Dependence and Withdrawal

Regular consumption can lead to caffeine dependence. Miss your morning cup? You might experience headaches, irritability, or difficulty concentrating—classic signs of withdrawal.

There is some good news: Enjoying coffee in moderation can still be part of a healthy lifestyle. Try limiting caffeine to 1–2 cups per day, avoid it after 2 p.m., and listen to how your body responds. Herbal teas, decaf options, and even matcha lattes can be delicious alternatives when you need a warm beverage without the buzz.

So, raise your mug (but not too many times a day). Your sleep, stomach, and sanity will thank you.

Lou