Why does coffee make me nauseous? Do you love drinking coffee for an extra boost of energy? Unfortunately, many suffer from nausea and other unpleasant side effects that can make enjoying a cup of joe impossible.
If this is the case for you, read on to learn more about why coffee can cause nausea and what steps you can take to prevent it.
We’ll look at both medical facts as well as natural ways to help out your daily caffeine fix while avoiding upset stomachs or headaches!
Chemical compounds in coffee:
Table of Contents
Chemical Compound | Description |
---|---|
Caffeine | A natural stimulant found in coffee that can increase alertness and improve cognitive function. |
Chlorogenic acid | An antioxidant found in coffee that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. |
Niacin | A B-vitamin found in coffee that can help with energy production and support skin health. |
Trigonelline | A compound found in coffee that gives it a slightly bitter taste and is thought to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. |
Acetic acid | A weak organic acid found in coffee that gives it a slightly sour taste. |
Quinic acid | An organic acid found in coffee that contributes to its slightly acidic taste and may have antioxidant properties. |
3,5 Dicaffeoylquinic acid | Also known as caffeoylquinic acid, this compound is a major component of chlorogenic acid and has been studied for its potential health benefits. |
Theobromine | A compound found in chocolate that is also present in small amounts in coffee and has a mild stimulant effect. |
Diterpenes (Cafestol and Kahweol) | These compounds found in coffee oils may increase cholesterol levels, but also have anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic properties. |
Why does coffee make me nauseous?
1. Drinking too much coffee: Coffee is a stimulant, and drinking too much of it can lead to an overstimulated nervous system that causes nausea. When consumed in large amounts, caffeine can cause your body to become overwhelmed, resulting in symptoms such as dizziness and nausea.
2. Sensitivity to Caffeine: Some people may be more sensitive than others when it comes to caffeine, and this sensitivity could result in feeling nauseous after drinking coffee. If you think you might be overly sensitive to caffeine, try reducing the amount of coffee you drink or switch to decaf versions instead.
3. Bogus Beans: Low-quality beans often contain molds and other toxins that can make you feel nauseous. Make sure to buy coffee from reputable suppliers and always check the expiration date before consuming it.
4. Too Hot: Coffee that is too hot can cause your stomach to become upset, leading to nausea and other unpleasant symptoms. Make sure to let your coffee cool down before drinking it, as this can help reduce or eliminate any feelings of nausea you may experience after consuming it.
5. Eating Habits: Eating a heavy meal right before or after drinking coffee can lead to an upset stomach and feelings of nausea. If possible, try waiting at least 30 minutes after eating a large meal before drinking coffee in order to avoid these adverse effects.
6. Caffeine Withdrawal: Abruptly quitting coffee can cause caffeine withdrawal symptoms, including nausea. To reduce the chance of experiencing this uncomfortable feeling, try to gradually reduce your intake of caffeine over time before quitting altogether.
7. Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to dehydration and it can also make you feel nauseous after consuming coffee. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day in order to stay hydrated and prevent any potential adverse effects from drinking too much coffee.
8. Acidic Blend: Some coffees are more acidic than others, which can result in stomach discomfort and feelings of nausea if consumed excessively. Opt for low-acid blends or Arabica beans instead if you find yourself feeling sick after drinking coffee frequently.
9. Dairy Products: Adding dairy products such as milk or cream to your coffee can make it difficult to digest, leading to feelings of nausea. Try using almond or coconut milk instead, which are both easier on the stomach and won’t cause any adverse effects after drinking.
10. Stress: Feeling stressed out or anxious can increase the chances of feeling nauseous after consuming coffee. Make sure to take some time for relaxation before drinking a cup of java in order to prevent any potential feelings of discomfort afterwards.
What are the symptoms of coffee sickness?
1. Nausea: This is the most common symptom associated with coffee sickness and can range from mild to severe depending on how much caffeine was consumed.
It’s important to note that feeling nauseous after drinking coffee is not necessarily a sign of actual illness, but it may be an indication that you should reduce your intake of caffeine.
2. Headaches: Caffeine can cause headaches if consumed in large amounts, especially if the individual has not had any prior to drinking it. If you experience frequent or intense headaches after consuming coffee, try reducing your intake or switch to decaf instead.
3. Dizziness: Caffeine can cause dizziness due its stimulating effects on the nervous system. If you feel dizzy after drinking coffee, make sure to reduce your intake and stay properly hydrated to prevent any further symptoms from occurring.
4. Irritability: Caffeine can cause jitters or feelings of irritability in some individuals, especially if they are not used to the effects that it has on the body. It may be wise to reduce your intake of coffee if you find yourself becoming easily irritated after consuming it.
5. Insomnia: Caffeine can disrupt sleep patterns, which may result in difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep throughout the night.
To avoid this symptom, try limiting your intake of caffeine during the day and switch to decaf options in order to help ensure a restful night’s sleep.
6. Restlessness: Similar to insomnia, caffeine can also lead to feelings of restlessness in some individuals if consumed before bedtime.
This symptom may be alleviated by reducing your intake of coffee or switching to decaffeinated options so that you can get a good night’s sleep.
7. Digestive Issues: Caffeine can irritate the digestive system and cause stomach pain, diarrhea, or constipation in some individuals who are not used to it.
If this is the case, try drinking more water throughout the day as well as limiting your consumption of coffee in order to prevent any potential digestive issues from occurring.
Who should limit when drinking coffee?
1. Children and Adolescents: Caffeine consumption is not recommended for children and adolescents due to its potential effects on the developing body.
Consuming large amounts of caffeine can lead to difficulty concentrating, irritability, restlessness, stomach pains, and headaches in younger individuals which is why it is important to limit their intake.
2. Pregnant Women: Pregnant women should also limit their caffeine intake as consuming too much can increase the risk of miscarriage or low birth weight.
It is recommended that pregnant women restrict their caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day in order to reduce any potential health risks to themselves or their unborn child.
3. Elderly People: The elderly population may be more sensitive to the effects of caffeine and should therefore limit their intake due to potential side effects such as increased heart rate, irritability, or difficulty sleeping.
4. People with Anxiety Disorders: Caffeine can worsen anxiety symptoms in individuals who struggle with this condition and can even trigger a full-blown panic attack if consumed in large amounts.
For this reason, it is important for those with anxiety disorders to limit their caffeine intake in order to prevent any further disruption of mental health.
5. Individuals with Heart Conditions: Consuming too much caffeine can lead to an increase in blood pressure and heart rate which can be detrimental for those who suffer from cardiovascular disease or other related conditions.
It is recommended that people with existing heart problems consult their doctor before consuming caffeine to ensure that any potential risks are minimized.
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What are the best ways to prevent/reduce coffee sickness?
1. Monitor Your Intake: The best way to prevent coffee sickness is monitor your intake and make sure that you are not consuming too much in one sitting. Try limiting yourself to no more than 4 cups of coffee per day in order to reduce the risk of experiencing any adverse effects.
2. Drink Water: Make sure to stay properly hydrated while drinking coffee by having a glass of water alongside each cup that you consume. This will help to flush out any potential toxins from your body and reduce the risk of feeling ill after drinking coffee.
3. Eat Something Before Drinking: Eating something before drinking coffee can help your body to better metabolize the caffeine, which can reduce its effects on the body and lessen the chance of experiencing any adverse side effects.
4. Avoid Caffeine Later in the Day: If you are prone to feeling ill after drinking coffee, try avoiding caffeine later in the day so that it does not affect your sleep. This will ensure that you get a good night’s rest and reduce the risk of feeling sluggish or unwell the following morning.
5. Switch to Decaf: If you find that regular coffee still makes you feel sick despite taking precautions, consider switching to decaffeinated options instead as these contain much less caffeine which can lead to fewer symptoms.
6. Take Breaks from Drinking Coffee: Another way to prevent coffee sickness is by taking breaks from consuming it altogether for periods of time. This will give your body a chance to readjust and reduce the risk of feeling unwell after drinking it.
7. Opt for Alternatives to Coffee: If you find that coffee still makes you feel ill, consider switching to other options such as tea or yerba mate which contain lower levels of caffeine and are less likely to cause adverse effects.
8. Talk to Your Doctor: If you find that nothing seems to work, it is best to talk to your doctor as they may be able to provide further advice or suggest medications that can help alleviate symptoms.
9. Avoid Other Stimulants: Along with reducing your intake of caffeine, it is also important to avoid any other stimulants such as energy drinks or nicotine which can increase the risk of feeling unwell after drinking coffee.
This will ensure that all potential sources of coffee sickness are eliminated.
Dosages of coffee for different types of people
Type of Person | Recommended Dosage of Coffee |
---|---|
Adults (18-64 years) | 400 mg per day (equivalent to about 4 cups of coffee) |
Adults (65 years and older) | 200-300 mg per day (equivalent to about 2-3 cups of coffee) |
Pregnant women | 200 mg per day (equivalent to about 2 cups of coffee) |
Nursing women | 300 mg per day (equivalent to about 3 cups of coffee) |
Children (under 12 years) | Not recommended |
Teenagers (12-18 years) | Up to 100 mg per day (equivalent to about 1 cup of coffee) |
Men | No more than 4 cups per day |
Women | No more than 3 cups per day |
Sedentary workers | No more than 3 cups per day |
Active workers | Up to 4 cups per day |
People with high blood pressure | No more than 1-2 cups per day |
People with heart conditions | No more than 1-2 cups per day |
People with anxiety or insomnia | No more than 1 cup per day |
People with acid reflux or digestive problems | No more than 1 cup per day |
Some alternative beverages to coffee?
1. Tea: Tea comes in a wide variety of flavors and can be enjoyed hot or cold. It contains much lower levels of caffeine than coffee so it is less likely to cause adverse effects and can provide a tasty alternative for those looking for something different.
2. Hot Chocolate: Hot chocolate is a delicious drink made with cocoa powder and milk which can provide a sweet, creamy taste that many people enjoy on its own or with added toppings such as marshmallows or sprinkles.
3. Kombucha: Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage that can be enjoyed both hot or cold depending on the season and contains beneficial probiotics which are said to aid in digestion.
4. Yerba Mate: Yerba mate is a caffeinated beverage that is made from the leaves of the South American holly tree and can be enjoyed hot or cold. It has a unique flavor that many people enjoy due to its slight bitterness and sweetness.
5. Matcha Latte: A matcha latte is a tea-based drink made with green tea powder and milk which provides a delicious earthy taste with subtle notes of sweetness.
6. Fruit Infusions: Fruit infusions are drinks made by steeping various fruits in hot or cold water for long periods of time, producing an array of flavors such as citrus, berry, or herbal depending on the type used.
7. Golden Milk: Golden milk is a comforting drink made with turmeric, ginger, and other spices which can provide an earthy flavor with notes of sweetness. It is also said to have many health benefits due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
FAQs about why does coffee make me nauseous
1. What Causes Coffee Nausea? Coffee nausea is usually caused by excessive levels of caffeine, which can irritate the stomach and lead to a feeling of sickness.
It can also be caused by other ingredients such as dairy or sugar which some people may have difficulty digesting.
2. Is it Normal to Feel Sick After Drinking Too Much Coffee?
Yes, it is normal to feel sick after drinking too much coffee as the high levels of caffeine can cause irritation in the stomach and make you feel unwell.
3. How Much Coffee Can I Drink Before Feeling Ill?
This depends on your individual tolerance level but generally speaking, it is best to limit your intake to no more than four cups per day and avoid having more than two cups in one sitting.
4. What Are Some Signs of Coffee Nausea?
Common signs of coffee nausea include feeling jittery, anxious, or irritable; a pounding heart; headaches; stomachaches; and nausea.
5. How Can I Avoid Feeling Sick After Drinking Coffee?
One way to avoid feeling sick after drinking coffee is to gradually increase your intake over time as this will give your body time to adjust and reduce the risk of adverse effects.
You should also opt for lower-caffeine options such as tea or yerba mate whenever possible, and talk to your doctor if nothing seems to work.
6. Is Decaf Coffee Less Likely to Cause Nausea?
Not necessarily as decaf coffee still contains some caffeine, although it is at a much lower level than regular coffee.
It is therefore unlikely to cause nausea but could still irritate the stomach if consumed in large amounts.
7. Are Energy Drinks More Likely to Cause Nausea Than Coffee?
Yes, energy drinks usually contain higher levels of caffeine and other stimulants which can increase the risk of feeling unwell after drinking them compared to coffee.
8. Does Caffeine Make Some People Feel Sick?
Yes, caffeine can make some people feel sick due to its stimulating effects on the body which can result in headaches, jitteriness, anxiety, and nausea.
9. What Other Beverages Can I Enjoy Instead of Coffee?
Some healthier alternatives to coffee include tea, herbal infusions, and yerba mate. Kombucha is also a good option as it is naturally fermented and contains beneficial probiotics which can aid digestion.
10. Is There Anything I Can Do to Reduce the Risk of Feeling Nauseous After Drinking Coffee?
Yes, there are several things you can do to reduce the risk of feeling nauseous after drinking coffee such as reducing your intake, opting for lower-caffeine options, or introducing more healthy beverages into your diet.
11. Why Does My Stomach Hurt When I Drink Coffee?
This could be caused by an excess amount of caffeine causing irritation in the stomach or due to other ingredients such as milk or sugar.
12. Is Coffee Good for Digestion?
Not necessarily as it can cause stomach irritation and other digestive issues when consumed in excess.
13. What Are Some Natural Ways to Settle an Upset Stomach After Drinking Too Much Coffee?
Drinking peppermint tea, ginger tea, or chamomile tea can help settle an upset stomach after drinking too much coffee.
Additionally, taking some activated charcoal tablets can help absorb any toxins that may be causing discomfort.
14. Can I Develop a Tolerance to Caffeine Over Time?
Yes, it is possible to develop a tolerance to caffeine over time as your body will become accustomed to the effects of the stimulant and require more each time to achieve the same effect.
This can be a good thing as it allows you to enjoy coffee without feeling ill, but it is important to remember not to overdo it.
15. Are There Any Natural Alternatives To Coffee?
Yes, there are several natural alternatives to coffee that provide similar benefits without causing nausea or other digestive issues. Some of these include matcha tea, chicory root coffee, dandelion root tea, and guayusa tea.
These beverages are generally lower in caffeine than regular coffee but still contain some which can give you a gentle energy boost and help improve focus and alertness.
16. What Should I Do If Nothing Seems To Help My Coffee Nausea?
If nothing seems to help your coffee nausea, it is best to talk to a doctor or medical professional who can provide further advice and guidance.
They will be able to explore any underlying causes of your symptoms and suggest the most appropriate course of action.
17. Is There Anything Else I Can Do To Prevent Coffee Nausea In The Future?
To prevent coffee-related nausea in the future, you should aim to gradually increase your intake as this will give your body time to adapt and reduce the risk of adverse effects. You should also opt for lower-caffeine options such as tea or yerba mate whenever possible. Additionally, introducing more healthy beverages into your diet can help reduce the chances of feeling unwell after consuming coffee. Lastly, try not to drink coffee on an empty stomach as this can cause digestive discomfort.
Conclusion about why does coffee make me nauseous:
Caffeine can make some people feel nauseous, due to its stimulating effects on the body. There are several things you can do to reduce the risk of nausea after drinking coffee such as reducing your intake and opting for lower-caffeine options.
Additionally, introducing more healthy beverages into your diet as well as taking activated charcoal tablets can help settle an upset stomach after drinking too much coffee.
To prevent future episodes of nausea it is important to gradually increase your caffeine intake and opt for lower-caffeine options whenever possible. Finally, try not to drink coffee on an empty stomach as this can cause digestive discomfort.

I’m Leon Todd and my passion for cooking is my life goal. I’m the owner and operator of Davieschuckwagon.com, a website that specializes in providing high-quality cooking information and resources. I love to experiment with new flavors and techniques in the kitchen, and I’m always looking for ways to improve my skills.
I worked my way up through the ranks, taking on more challenging roles in the kitchen. I eventually became a head chef.
Cooking is more than just a job to me – it’s a passion that I want to share with the world.