10 myths about coffee

Coffee is one of the most consumed drinks in the world. Many people consume it for its taste, others for its energizing effects, but everyone appreciates its aroma and scent. Over time, many myths about the magic liquor have spread, so much so that some statements have been taken as scientific truths. We thought we’d create a top 10 of the most common myths about coffee and its consumption.

1. Coffee causes insomnia

FAKE!

Coffee is a stimulant. However, the caffeine contained in this drink is rapidly absorbed by the body, is processed by the kidneys and is almost completely eliminated (75%) in approximately 4-7 hours. Therefore you should not have sleep problems if you consume a maximum of 2-3 cups of coffee per day. Moderation is the key!

2. Coffee dehydrates you

Partially TRUE!

There is some truth behind this myth. However, consuming no more than three coffees a day does not cause dehydration, and the water used to prepare the drink represents liquid consumption. A 2014 study (PLOS ONE) assumed that a group of male coffee drinkers would drink three cups of coffee or three glasses of water for three consecutive days, after which they would switch. The researchers did not observe any differences related to hydration at any stage of the two samples.

3. Coffee wakes you up from a hangover

FAKE!

Coffee does not remove alcohol from the body. It may give a false sense of «wakefulness» due to the stimulating effect, but does not counteract the effects of alcohol on the brain and reflexes. What’s worse, this feeling can lead to dangerous decisions, such as driving under the influence of alcohol.

4. Coffee helps you lose weight

FAKE!

The stimulant effects of coffee might, at best, increase metabolism to a very small extent, but not enough to produce significant differences in diet. Coffee may temporarily reduce appetite, but this is not evidence that long-term consumption will affect weight loss.

5. Coffee is addictive

Partially TRUE!

Most coffee drinkers say they can’t start their day successfully without enjoying a cup of coffee or that they don’t have enough energy if they don’t drink their portion of this beverage. To a very, very small extent, this has a grain of truth, as regular coffee consumption stimulates the central nervous system, which causes a small addiction. However, the effects pass after about a day or two from the time you stop consumption.

6. Pregnant women should not drink coffee

TRUE, but with clarifications

The World Health Organization and other medical authorities recommend that pregnant women limit caffeine consumption to no more than 200 mg per day (equivalent to about one large cup of coffee). Caffeine can cross the placenta and fetal metabolism does not process it efficiently, which could lead to complications, including low birth weight.

7. Lightly roasted coffee has a lower caffeine content

FAKE!

More intensely roasted beans have a stronger flavor but contain less caffeine. Caffeine is partially degraded during roasting. Therefore, a light roast coffee generally contains more caffeine than a dark roast one.

8. All types of coffee contain the same amount of caffeine

FAKE!

The amount of caffeine varies depending on the type of coffee (Arabica vs Robusta), the preparation method (espresso, filter, French press), the degree of roasting and the weight used. For example, Robusta coffee contains twice as much caffeine as Arabica.

9. Coffee prevents the onset of some diseases

Partially TRUE!

Numerous epidemiological studies have associated regular coffee consumption with a lower risk of diseases such as type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s or some forms of cancer. However, these are correlations and do not demonstrate a direct causal relationship. The possible beneficial effects are also influenced by other lifestyle factors.

10. Coffee has an immediate effect

FAKE!

Caffeine doesn’t work immediately. It is absorbed into the blood approximately 15-30 minutes after consumption and the maximum effect is felt after 45-60 minutes. If after drinking coffee you immediately feel «energized», it is more likely that it is a placebo effect or a conditioned reflex.

Coffee is more than just a drink: it is a daily experience, a ritual and sometimes the subject of misconceptions spread over time. As we have seen, many of the myths related to coffee do not have a solid scientific basis or are only partially true. Correct information and balance in consumption are essential to enjoy all the benefits of coffee, without unnecessary worries.

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