Question

I know I probably drink far too much coffee – about 5 cups a day – but it helps me to ‘wake up’ in the morning and stay more alert during the day. But what do we know about the effect of caffeine on the brain? Is it actually harmful or beneficial to people with ME/CFS?

Answer

Besides being present in coffee, caffeine is also found in a number of other drinks including tea, cola and ‘energy drinks’. Caffeine is the most widely consumed psychoactive stimulant drug in the world and there is now some interesting scientific evidence emerging on how caffeine affects the brain and nervous system and cardiovascular system.

Among the more important biochemical and physiological findings are the way in which caffeine can:

• affect the release of important brain chemical transmitters – including noradrenaline, dopamine, serotonin, acetylcholine, glutamic acid and gamma-aminobutyric acid – some of which are also involved in ME/CFS;
• lower blood flow to the brain by up to 30% due to its vasoconstrictor (blood-vessel narrowing) effect.

On a more positive note, a modest consumption of caffeine may help to:

• prevent a decline in cognitive function (memory, concentration etc.) along with the development of Alzheimer's disease;
• reduce the risk of Parkinson's disease;
• reduce the risk of stroke in moderation. However, excessive intake may increase the risk.

My normal advice in relation to ME/CFS is that excessive caffeine intake should definitely be avoided because this can cause palpitations and exacerbate sleep disturbance.

However, there may be advantages in having occasional drinks of coffee during the day – probably limiting this to a maximum of 3 cups. You can also try decaffeinated coffee if you really are addicted to the bean!

• Please let us know your views on coffee and ME/CFS. How many cups do you have each day? Does coffee make you feel better or worse?

More Information:

• ME Association Booklet: Diet and Nutrition