3 coffee mistakes you should avoid, shares Harvard-trained gastroenterologist

A Harvard-trained gastroenterologist reveals three common coffee mistakes that could be harming your gut health.(Image: Pexels)

Many people enjoy drinking a cup of coffee during the day, whether on their way to work or after a Pilates class. For those who love it, coffee is a kind of fuel that both energises and calms. But how do you know if you’re doing it right? Harvard-trained gastroenterologist Dr Saurabh Sethi recently shared three mistakes you may be making with your coffee. But first, let’s look at some of its science-backed benefits…

Health benefits of coffee

Dr Sethi cited several reports supporting the health benefits of coffee. “Coffee is wonderful for your brain, gut, and liver. Polyphenols boost good gut bacteria. It sharpens focus, lowers the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and has also been associated with reduced all-cause mortality risk. But most people are doing coffee wrong,” he said.

Also read: Cardiologist explains how high blood pressure fuels coronary heart disease

The doctor highlighted three mistakes that coffee drinkers should avoid:

1. Adding sugar

Adding sugar to coffee is a common practice to reduce its bitterness. However, it is not a healthy choice. Dr Sethi told Moneycontrol, “It spikes blood glucose and drives inflammation. Use a touch of honey after your coffee cools down a little, or add monk fruit or stevia without erythritol.”

2. Not choosing organic coffee

Pesticides can adversely affect the gut. The gastroenterologist warned, “Coffee is one of the most pesticide-heavy crops, and we want to minimise our exposure to these chemicals.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Saurabh Sethi MD MPH | Gastroenterologist (@doctor.sethi)

3. Not choosing the right roast

Whether coffee suits your system also depends on the roast. “For acid reflux, don’t quit coffee before trying a darker roast, which is gentler on the stomach. And if you don’t have heartburn or acid reflux, go for light roasts as these are richer in antioxidants.”

Also read: This tropical fruit may lower diabetes risk better than granola bars, says study

Additionally, experts believe that overconsumption of coffee should be avoided. Hydration and drinking enough water during the day also play an important role, especially for coffee drinkers. The timing of your daily dose matters too. While having it on an empty stomach can increase acid production, consuming it at night can interfere with sleep.

FAQs about coffee:

1. What are the benefits of drinking coffee?

Coffee can boost good gut bacteria, sharpen focus, and lower the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. It is also associated with reduced all-cause mortality risk.

2. Why should I avoid adding sugar to my coffee?

Adding sugar can spike blood glucose levels and drive inflammation. Consider using a touch of honey after your coffee cools down or alternatives like monk fruit or stevia without erythritol.

3. Why is it important to choose organic coffee?

Organic coffee helps minimise exposure to pesticides, which can adversely affect the gut.

4. How does the roast of coffee affect its suitability for me?

Darker roasts are gentler on the stomach and can help with acid reflux, while light roasts are richer in antioxidants and are suitable for those without heartburn or acid reflux issues.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis