Is it bad to drink caffeine when you're sick?

When feeling ill, a cup of coffee can be especially appealing. The increased alertness that caffeinated coffee provides, however, has tradeoffs. Here's a look at several effects coffee can have on the body. Coffee Can Help You Feel Better. read more

Caffeine can dehydrate you - which is often enough of a concern on its own anyway when you're sick. Caffeine is a diuretic and in general it makes sense to avoid diuretics when you're already concerned about staying hydrated. Coffee may reduce some measures of immune function slightly while leaving others unchanged. read more

Let’s start with the bad news. Unfortunately, caffeine can be dehydrating—and, as you’ve probably heard, the golden rule of getting over a bug is hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. “While you’re sick, it’s very important to stay on top of hydration to help the body thin mucus [and] replace fluids lost,” explains Kroplin. read more

Drink. Sip water, juice, broth, and other clear liquids all day. Staying hydrated helps your immune system fight sickness. It can also help loosen mucus and replace fluids you lose from blowing your nose. Keep a healthy supply of drinks right at your desk. But avoid coffee, caffeinated sodas, and energy drinks. read more