Ask a GP: Does Coffee Salt Ease Anxiety and Jitters?
The Debate Over Adding Salt to Coffee
Coffee is often seen as a morning ritual, with many people relying on it to kickstart their day. However, the effects of coffee can vary from person to person. While moderate consumption—around three to four cups a day—is generally considered safe and even beneficial for heart health and longevity, overindulgence can lead to uncomfortable side effects. For some, this means experiencing jitters, anxiety, or even panic attacks after consuming too much caffeine.
This has led to various unconventional tips circulating online, one of which involves adding salt to coffee. According to some influencers, this practice can help neutralize the acidity in coffee and reduce the stress response triggered by caffeine. The idea is that a small amount of sodium can counteract the adrenaline surge caused by caffeine, making the panicky feeling associated with overconsumption less intense. But is there any truth to this claim?
Expert Opinion: Salt Doesn’t Help With Caffeine Jitters
To get a clearer picture, we reached out to Dr. Suzanne Wylie, a GP and medical adviser for IQdoctor. She was quick to dismiss the notion that salt could effectively reduce the anxiety or jitteriness caused by excessive caffeine intake. “The addition of salt is unlikely to have any meaningful effect on anxiety or jitteriness,” she said.
Dr. Wylie explained that the feelings of restlessness or anxiety after drinking coffee are primarily due to caffeine’s impact on the central nervous system. Caffeine increases the release of adrenaline and blocks adenosine receptors, both of which contribute to heightened alertness. However, these effects are not influenced by the addition of salt.
“If you’re really distressed by how coffee makes you feel, a more effective approach would be to reduce your caffeine intake,” she advised. This could involve switching to decaffeinated coffee, drinking smaller amounts, or avoiding caffeine later in the day.
Salt’s Role in Coffee Flavor
While salt may not help with the anxiety caused by caffeine, it does have an impact on the taste of coffee. James Hoffmann, a well-known coffee expert, has long advocated for adding a pinch of salt to coffee to enhance its flavor. He claims that salt can amplify sweetness and reduce bitterness, making the drink smoother and more enjoyable.
Dr. Wylie agreed that some people might find salt helpful in improving the taste of their coffee. “Adding a small amount of salt can reduce bitterness or improve the taste, which might make the drink more palatable,” she said. However, she emphasized the importance of moderation.
“From a health standpoint, it’s worth noting that excessive salt intake is associated with raised blood pressure and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease,” she warned. While the amount added to a single cup of coffee is likely minimal, regular use could contribute to higher overall sodium intake.
Conclusion: Salt in Coffee May Not Be the Solution
In summary, while adding salt to coffee may subtly change its taste, it does not mitigate the anxiety or jitteriness caused by caffeine in any clinically significant way. For those struggling with the side effects of coffee, reducing caffeine consumption remains the most effective solution.
If you’re looking to enjoy your coffee without the unwanted side effects, consider experimenting with different brewing methods, adjusting your intake, or exploring alternatives like herbal tea. Ultimately, finding the right balance is key to enjoying coffee without compromising your well-being.
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