As one of the world's most popular beverages, coffee is increasingly regarded by consumers as a daily drink, with per capita consumption reaching 326 cups per year
However, the recent claim that drinking coffee may cause anemia is unbelievable
So does drinking coffee really make our body anemic? Let's take a look with the editor!
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Causes of anemia
1. Iron deficiency anemia: Anemia occurs due to our body's lack of enough iron to synthesize enough hemoglobin. Common causes include unbalanced diet, digestive malabsorption, and menorrhagia in women.
2. Vitamin B12 deficiency or folic acid anemia: Vitamin B12 and folic acid are necessary nutrients for the synthesis of red blood cells. A lack of these nutrients can cause red blood cells to fail to develop and divide properly, triggering anemia. Common causes include an unbalanced diet, malabsorption, long-term use of certain medications, etc.
3. Anemia caused by chronic diseases: Certain chronic diseases, such as kidney disease, liver disease, cancer, etc., affect the body's absorption and utilization of iron, vitamin B12 and folate, resulting in anemia.
4. Hereditary anemia: Some genetic diseases, such as thalassemia, sickle cell anemia, etc., can cause abnormal morphology or function of red blood cells, which can cause anemia.
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5. Anemia caused by external factors: such as massive blood loss, acute infection, toxic effects of drugs or chemicals, etc., can lead to anemia.
The relationship between coffee and anemia
There is indeed a relationship between coffee and anemia. The caffeine contained in coffee can inhibit the body's absorption of iron. Iron is an important element in the synthesis of hemoglobin, which in turn is a key substance in carrying oxygen to all parts of the body. Therefore, long-term heavy consumption of coffee may lead to insufficient iron intake, which in turn affects hemoglobin synthesis, thereby increasing the risk of anemia.
However, it is important to note that the effect of coffee on anemia is not absolute and varies greatly from individual to individual. Some studies suggest that coffee's effects on anemia may be related to an individual's diet, iron stores, and coffee intake. In addition, the effects of caffeine may also vary depending on an individual's metabolic capacity.
Therefore, drinking coffee does hinder some iron absorption, but it does not cause iron loss in the body. Studies have found that drinking coffee one hour before meals has no effect on iron absorption.
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How to drink coffee healthily?
1. For healthy people, drinking coffee normally does not lead to iron deficiency and anemia. Therefore, coffee can still be drunk, and it is safe to consume 300-400 mg of caffeine per day, preferably no more than 4 cups per day.
2. For people with iron deficiency anemia, if they really want to drink coffee but are also worried about affecting iron absorption, they can also choose coffee without cause.
3. Avoid adding too much sugar and dairy: Too much sugar and dairy products can increase the calorie and fat content of coffee, which is not good for health. If flavoring is needed, choose low- or no-sugar alternatives such as honey or plant-based milk.
4. Pay attention to the time and frequency of coffee: The action time of caffeine is about 4-6 hours, so it is best to drink coffee in the morning or early afternoon to avoid affecting sleep at night. In addition, frequent coffee consumption may lead to a tolerance to caffeine, making it less effective.
5. Choose high-quality coffee beans: High-quality coffee beans generally contain more antioxidants and beneficial compounds. Choose freshly roasted coffee beans and try to avoid additives and artificial flavors.
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In conclusion, moderate coffee consumption can be part of a healthy lifestyle, but care should be taken to control caffeine intake, avoid adding too much sugar and dairy products, and make appropriate adjustments according to the individual's constitution and health.