Coffee is no longer just a drink. For many young people, it has become part of their lifestyle, daily routine, and even social identity. From the trendy iced coffee with milk to single-origin specialty coffees, coffee culture has grown rapidly in recent years. Coffee shops are popping up on almost every corner of the city, while coffee-related content fills social media, from menu recommendations and aesthetic cafes to "study with coffee" vlogs.
For some, starting the day without coffee feels incomplete. Some drink coffee to improve focus during class or work, while others use it as a companion for staying up late, hanging out, or even a mood booster after a long day. However, despite its popularity and enjoyment, excessive coffee consumption still has health consequences, especially for the younger generation, who are increasingly exposed to caffeine from adolescence.
Why is Coffee Trending Among Young People?
The coffee culture phenomenon among the younger generation didn't just emerge out of nowhere. Several factors have contributed to its growing popularity and its continued impact on everyday life.
1. Coffee as part of social identity
Nowadays, hanging out at a cafe isn't just about drinking coffee; it's also a way to socialize and express your lifestyle. Many young people choose certain cafes because of their comfortable, aesthetically pleasing atmosphere, or because they're suitable for working and studying. Coffee also often symbolizes productivity and a modern lifestyle.
2. The influence of social media
TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have a significant influence on coffee trends. Content featuring cafe recommendations, new menu reviews, and even the "coffee aesthetic" has made coffee seem increasingly appealing. Trendy coffee drinks with unique toppings or attractive packaging often go viral, encouraging many people to try them.
3. Productivity demands
Busy schedules mean many students and young workers rely on caffeine to stay focused and alert. Assignment deadlines, class schedules, overtime, and even staying up late make coffee a popular "energy savior."
4. Increasingly diverse menu variations
Modern coffee now comes in a variety of flavors and forms, from sweet, cold, creamy, and even dessert-based. This has made coffee more accessible, even to those who previously disliked the bitter taste.
Health Benefits of Coffee
Although often considered bad because of its caffeine content, coffee actually has several benefits if consumed in reasonable amounts.
1. Helps improve focus and concentration
Caffeine works by stimulating the central nervous system, making the body feel more alert and refreshed. This effect helps a person stay focused while studying, working, or driving long distances.
2. Helps improve mood
For some people, drinking coffee can have a calming effect and help improve mood. The simple ritual of enjoying coffee in the morning can also have a calming psychological effect.
3. Contains antioxidants
Coffee contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body. Several studies have also shown that moderate coffee consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of certain diseases, such as type 2 diabetes and liver disease.
4. Become a means of relaxation and socializing
Having coffee with friends is often a way to relieve stress, chat, or simply take a break from a stressful routine. This social aspect also impacts a person's mental health.
Negative Impacts of Excessive Coffee Consumption
Despite its benefits, excessive coffee consumption can still cause various health problems, especially when combined with an unhealthy lifestyle.
1. Sleep disorders
This is the most common side effect experienced by young people. Drinking coffee too late in the day can make it difficult to fall asleep or reduce the quality of your sleep. As a result, you'll become easily tired, have difficulty focusing, and experience more mood swings the next day.
Many people end up in an unhealthy cycle: losing sleep because of coffee, then drinking more coffee to fight off the drowsiness.
2. Heart palpitations and anxiety
Too much caffeine can trigger heart palpitations, hand tremors, and excessive anxiety. In people who are sensitive to caffeine, these effects can even resemble panic attacks.
3. Mild dependence
The body can become accustomed to caffeine if consumed daily in large amounts. When someone suddenly stops drinking coffee, symptoms such as headaches, irritability, weakness, or difficulty concentrating may occur.
4. Excessive sugar consumption
Many modern coffee drinks actually contain high amounts of sugar and cream. A single cup of modern coffee can contain the equivalent of several tablespoons of sugar. Consuming this regularly can increase the risk of obesity and diabetes.
5. Stomach and digestive disorders
In some people, coffee can increase stomach acid production, triggering ulcers or acid reflux. Coffee can also cause stomach discomfort if consumed on an empty stomach.
Who Should Be More Careful?
Not everyone has the same tolerance for caffeine. Some groups need to be more mindful of their coffee consumption.
- Teenagers and students who often lack sleep
- People with anxiety disorders
- People with high blood pressure or heart problems
- People with ulcers or GERD
- Pregnant women or those planning a pregnancy
In certain groups, excessive caffeine consumption can have a greater impact than in others.
Healthier Coffee Tips
Enjoying coffee can still be done without sacrificing your health. These simple steps can help maintain balance.
1. Limit the amount of consumption
The safe limit for caffeine consumption for adults is generally around 200–400 mg per day or the equivalent of 2–4 cups of regular coffee, depending on each individual's body condition.
2. Avoid coffee at night
Try not to consume coffee 6–8 hours before bed to maintain the quality of your rest.
3. Reduce added sugar
Choosing coffee with less sugar or without excessive toppings can help reduce your daily calorie intake.
4. Don't make coffee a substitute for rest.
Coffee only helps the body stay awake temporarily, it does not replace the need for sleep and rest.
5. Pay attention to your body's reactions
If after drinking coffee you experience heart palpitations, anxiety, headaches, or difficulty sleeping, it could be a sign that your body has received too much caffeine.
Examples of a More Balanced Coffee Consumption Pattern
For students or young workers, a balanced coffee consumption pattern can help maintain energy without harming health.
- Morning: a cup of coffee to help focus on starting activities
- Afternoon: if necessary, choose a small coffee or green tea.
- Afternoon to evening: avoid coffee to ensure quality sleep
- Drink plenty of water: to help the body stay hydrated
Closing
Coffee culture among young people is a growing phenomenon and has become part of the modern lifestyle. Coffee can help improve focus, productivity, and socialize. However, excessive consumption can still impact health, particularly sleep quality, mental well-being, and digestive health.
The key isn't to stop drinking coffee completely, but rather to understand your body's limits and consume it more wisely. Enjoying coffee occasionally is certainly fine, as long as it's balanced with a healthy lifestyle, adequate sleep, and adequate water consumption.
The article was written by Dr. Ahmad Yusran, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist at EMC Pulomas Hospital).