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Coffee is an rousing drink which impedes fatigue.
Beyond this commonly understood information, what is the effect of coffee on the entire person? Here are some details on the bodily functions on which coffee has, or does not have, an influence.
The Brain
Caffeine has a vasoconstriction effect in the brain. It dilates cerebral circulation. For the same reason, an abuse of coffee results in headaches. Caffeine can lengthen the duration of vigilance, delay the appearance of tiredness, in particular during intellectual or repetitive tasks. It can strengthen the analgesic effect of aspirin and, in some cases, help prevent migraines.
The Heart
For people in good health, normal consumption of coffee (up to 5 cups a day) modifies neither the cardiovascular functions, nor the rate of heartbeat. It will not alter overall blood pressure. However, where high blood pressure and heart disease already exist, drinking coffee is usually not advised.
The Liver
Coffee stimulates certain enzymatic activities and has an influence on medications; combinations are hard on the liver. Abuse of coffee is known to overtax the liver.
The Muscles
Effects on muscles vary according to one's physical type and activeness. Caffeine excites the central nervous system, it increases endurance by delaying fatigue. It does not improve physical performances but facilitates activities which require a complex coordination, like the piloting of machines or vehicles.
The Lungs
Caffeine has a broncho-dilating action which can help relieve an attack of asthma when medications cannot be found. Raw coffee dust can however cause allergic reactions in the respiratory system and on the skin.
The Stomach
The wax and fats of coffee stimulate the acid secretion of the stomach. This makes coffee indigestible with milk. “Degreased” coffees make it possible to avoid this disadvantage.
The Kidneys
Caffeine has a diuretic action. It stimulates a flushing of the kidney and bladder.
The Pancreas
Coffee increases the external secretion of the pancreas. A consumption in moderate quantity is not troublesome for diabetics, except if it involves a state of nervousness or anxiety which would cause a deterioration of the control of the glycemia.
Pregnancy
Coffee does not modify the physiological conditions of pregnancy. It does not constitute a danger to the child. However, the fetus eliminates caffeine very slowly and for the fetus, unlike the mother, the presence of caffeine becomes cumulative. It is thus recommended to limit coffee consumption during pregnancy.
