Tuesday 27/January/2026 – 04:44 AM
Despite its wide fame Coffee As a drink rich in health benefits, experts warn of the presence of hidden side effects that may accompany excessive consumption. In addition to its positive role in supporting liver health, reducing oxidative stress, and helping to limit the development of fatty liver disease, recent studies indicate that the benefit of coffee remains dependent on the quantity and method of consumption, otherwise its benefits turn into silent harms in the long term.
Hidden side effects of drinking coffee regularly
According to what was published by the Hindustan Times newspaper, Dr. M. Ravi Kumar, senior consultant in internal medicine at Sakra Global Hospital in Bengaluru, revealed a group of unknown side effects of drinking coffee regularly, explaining that its effect does not stop at alertness and increased concentration, but may extend to affect the brain, hormones, and digestive system without immediate notice.
The doctor explained that relying on coffee to stay awake during fatigue may have a negative impact on the brain, as research indicates the possibility of gray matter shrinking when used excessively. Caffeine also disrupts the adenosine receptors responsible for the feeling of sleepiness for a period of up to 12 hours, which deprives the brain of the deep sleep necessary for regeneration, and over time leads to a chronic feeling of brain fog.
Dr. Kumar explained that coffee may interfere with the absorption of some important nutrients, most notably calcium and iron, as a result of the effect of caffeine and polyphenols such as tannins and chlorogenic acid. This imbalance may be reflected in the long term in the form of weak bone density or anemia, especially when drinking too much coffee or near mealtimes.
Stomach and digestive disorder
He pointed out that coffee is a strong stimulant for the secretion of stomach acids, which makes drinking it on an empty stomach a potential cause of erosion of the stomach lining and local inflammation that may be mistakenly interpreted as general fatigue or psychological tension.
The doctor pointed out that coffee raises levels of the hormone cortisol, which may lead to the appearance of acne in adults, decreased skin elasticity, and accelerated aging due to hidden infections that affect skin health.
For women, Dr. Kumar warned that drinking too much coffee may cause disruption in the menstrual cycle, in addition to increased stress, anxiety, and heart palpitations, as a result of excessive dependence on the stress hormone.
Although coffee is a low-calorie drink, the expert pointed out that drinking four or more cups a day may be associated with an increase in belly fat and metabolic disorders, contrary to the prevailing belief about its role in weight loss.
At the conclusion of his speech, Dr. Kumar explained that coffee may negatively affect the balance of beneficial bacteria in the mouth and stomach, which increases the possibility of gum disease or leaky gut syndrome, which may cause bloating or allergies to some foods.
