Introduction
I’ve been known to make some pretty questionable decisions, especially when I’m sick. If you can’t tell by now, the number-one way that I deal with an illness is by drinking copious amounts of coffee. In fact, I find it so beneficial that I have even convinced myself that my colds are caused by not drinking enough coffee in the first place. While it would be nice if this was actually true (and if the medical world would agree with me), there are several other benefits to consider before tossing back an extra-strength cup of joe:
Coffee Is A Natural Decongestant
Coffee is a natural decongestant that can help relieve congestion. If you’ve ever suffered from a stuffy nose, coffee may be able to provide some relief! Caffeine has been shown to reduce the production of mucus in the body and open up airways, making it easier to breathe.
Coffee reduces inflammation in your body by stimulating anti-inflammatory responses from cells called macrophages (1). Macrophages are part of your immune system; they clean up dead cells and other debris in your body so they don’t build up into something harmful. But when their job goes overboard–for example, when you have an infection–they release too many inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream (2). This can cause pain, swelling and redness at sites where there are infections or injuries such as sore throats (3). Drinking coffee regularly may help prevent these symptoms by reducing inflammation throughout the entire body!
The Caffeine Acts As A Pain Reliever
Caffeine is a natural pain reliever and has been shown to reduce pain by blocking the nerve impulses that signal your brain that you are in pain. It also helps you relax, which can help you sleep better at night.
Caffeine can be used to treat headaches and migraines, as well as back pain, muscle spasms and joint stiffness caused by injury or overuse (like runner’s knee).
The Antioxidants In Coffee Help Fight Infection
The antioxidants in coffee are also helpful in fighting infection. Antioxidants help protect your body from free radicals, which can damage cells and cause disease. Caffeine is an antioxidant, so it helps to fight off the harmful effects of free radicals on the cells in your throat.
Coffee has more antioxidants than green tea and other common sources of caffeine such as chocolate and soda pop (source).
The Anti-inflammatory Properties Of Coffee Size Up Cold Medications
Coffee has anti-inflammatory properties, which means that it can help to reduce the swelling of your throat. This will make it easier for you to breathe and swallow. It also makes sense that drinking hot liquids would feel good when you have a sore throat, but did you know that coffee is actually better than cold medications at reducing pain?
Caffeine is the active ingredient in coffee, so if you’re looking for a way to soothe your sore throat without taking any medication, try making yourself a cup of joe instead! Coffee contains many other beneficial compounds as well; one study found that drinking five cups per day was associated with lower risk of death from all causes (including heart disease).
Keep in mind these benefits of coffee before you reach for that envelope of Sudafed.
Coffee is a natural decongestant. The caffeine in coffee acts as a pain reliever and can help you feel better when you have a sore throat, especially if it’s caused by allergies or colds. Caffeine also increases blood flow to the brain, which helps relieve headaches.
Coffee has antioxidants that fight infection, which makes it an effective treatment for sore throats caused by viruses like the common cold or flu virus (known medically as rhinovirus). Antioxidants are also known to reduce inflammation in our bodies–a good thing since swollen tonsils usually indicate an infection! And because of these effects on your body, coffee has been shown to be more effective than over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) at reducing fever and pain associated with sore throats–so no need for those envelopes full of Sudafed just yet!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to soothe your sore throat, consider reaching for a cup of coffee. It’s not just good for the soul–it can help heal your body as well!