Coffee is an insanely popular drink, and for some it offers some tangible health benefits. But for some, coffee just makes you feel even more tired and fatigued.Isn’t this the exact opposite effect that you expect (and need!) from this caffeinated beverage? Here’s why drinking coffee can make you feel worse, rather than better. 

Coffee can over-stimulate the sympathetic nervous system

Caffeine is a stimulant, and it’s present, not only in coffee, but in tea, chocolate and soda. Who you consume caffeine, it stimulates the sympathetic nervous system. And this is why when you drink coffee, you experience a quick boost of energy and focus. Your heart rate and blood pressure might go up, too.

There’s nothing wrong with this. The only problem is that in general, with all the coffee people drink, the sympathetic nervous system is wound up and doesn’t have a chance to rest.

Coffee can contribute to adrenal fatigue

If coffee over-stimulates the sympathetic nervous system over a long period of time, it also activates the stress hormone, cortisol. And when chronic stress continues, it can lead to hormonal dysfunction called adrenal fatigue. And if an individual has adrenal fatigue, even coffee can’t energize them anymore.

Coffee can interfere with restful sleep

Everyone metabolizes caffeine differently. And some people can drink coffee without much sleep interruption. However, for sensitive individuals, coffee can wreak havoc on a good night’s sleep. This study found that caffeine taken 6 hours before bed has “important disruptive effects on sleep.”

If you keep drinking coffee, but continue to feel tired and fatigued, consider coffee as a potential cause.