Do hairstylists drink too much coffee ?

When we're really busy it's common that we grab a quick coffee between clients to perk us up. Everyone knows that the caffeine in coffee can give us a lift but can we drink too much and what are the benefits and drawbacks ? We also discuss the maximum recommended number of cups that can be drunk daily.

Firstly let's look at the pros of drinking coffee:

1. Improved Mental Alertness: Coffee contains caffeine, which can enhance cognitive function, concentration, and alertness.

2. Boosts Physical Performance: Caffeine in coffee stimulates the nervous system, leading to improved physical performance during workouts or sports activities.

3. Rich in Antioxidants: Coffee is a significant source of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

4. Enhanced Mood: Consuming coffee can lead to increased production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, promoting feelings of well-being and happiness.

5. Reduced Risk of Certain Diseases: Regular coffee consumption has been associated with a lower risk of various diseases, including Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain types of cancer.

6. Improved Metabolic Rate: Coffee can increase metabolic rate and promote fat burning, potentially aiding in weight management when consumed in moderation.

7. Lower Risk of Stroke: Some studies suggest that moderate coffee consumption may reduce the risk of stroke and improve overall cardiovascular health.

8. Protection for the Liver: Coffee has been linked to a reduced risk of liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer, due to its ability to lower levels of liver enzymes and reduce inflammation.

9. Social Benefits: Coffee often serves as a social lubricant, facilitating social interactions and providing opportunities for networking and bonding with others.

10. Longevity: Some research suggests that moderate coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of premature death compared to non-coffee drinkers, though more studies are needed to confirm this association.

Now the cons:

1. Addiction: Coffee contains caffeine, which can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms if consumed regularly and then abruptly stopped.

2. Disrupted Sleep: Consuming coffee, especially in the afternoon or evening, can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or disrupted sleep.

3. Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure: The caffeine in coffee can temporarily raise heart rate and blood pressure, which may be problematic for individuals with heart conditions or hypertension.

4. Stomach Issues: Coffee can cause gastrointestinal discomfort for some people, including acid reflux, heartburn, and irritation of the stomach lining.

5. Anxiety and Jitters: High doses of caffeine can trigger anxiety, nervousness, and jitteriness in some individuals, especially those sensitive to caffeine or with underlying anxiety disorders.

So initially it appears that the pros outweigh the cons but there are a couple of things we need to consider before coming to any conclusions.

The number of coffees drunk in a day is an important factor ; most of the benefits are related to moderate consumption i.e. two to five cups a day. The tipping point seems to be six cups per day. An article by The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition quoted Australian research that found that drinking six or more coffees a day increases a person's risk of heart disease by as much as 22 percent.

The amount of caffeine in your coffee is another important factor; some blends have a greater caffeine content and the different strengths and types of coffee available are another consideration. A typical cup of coffee can contain between 70 to 140 milligrams of caffeine and the daily maximum recommended dose is 400 milligrams or less which equates to about four or five cups. If you're not sure how much caffeine is in your coffee many caffeine calculators can be found online.

In conclusion we can say that drinking coffee offers many benefits but the key is to keep your consumption moderate with no more than five cups a day. If you have any medical conditions that may be affected by caffeine consumption then of course you will need to speak to your doctor to be sure.

Are you a coffee addict ? Are you worried about the amount of coffee you drink ? Start a discussion in our forums.