The harms and benefits of Nescafe and the permissible amount of it

Nescafe is one of the most popular instant coffee drinks that we consume daily, and it enjoys great popularity among both adults and children. However, despite its delicious taste and ease of preparation, some people are unaware of its side effects, especially when consumed in large quantities or at inappropriate times, such as on an empty stomach or by children. In this Dalili Medical article, we will discuss the harms of Nescafe for children, explain why it is not recommended for them, and highlight its overall effects on their health.

Does Nescafe Cause Weight Gain?

This depends on the type of Nescafe you drink since there are different varieties, each with its own effect on your diet. Let’s explore these types and their impact:

Sweetened Nescafe with Powdered Milk: This type contains several additives, not just coffee. It includes powdered milk, sugar, and creamer, making it high in fat. If consumed in large quantities or excessively, it can lead to weight gain, especially in the abdominal area.
Nescafe with Milk: This contains fat, but the likelihood of weight gain is lower than the first type, especially if you use natural milk. However, adding sugar, creamer, or using full-fat milk frequently may contribute to weight gain.
Nescafe Gold: This type is fat-free and very low in calories. One teaspoon contains about 3 calories, making it a healthy option that won’t cause weight gain.
Nescafe with Creamer: It consists of coffee and creamer, without sugar. However, it has more calories than Nescafe Gold and can increase hunger. Drinking it in large amounts may lead to slight weight gain.
Nescafe Gold Espresso: Similar to Nescafe Gold, but differs in the type of coffee beans and roasting process. Since it consists only of coffee beans with no added sugar or other ingredients, it does not contribute to weight gain.

Does Nescafe Cause Dehydration?

Yes, drinking Nescafe (or any caffeinated beverage) can have a mild impact on hydration, but it is not the main cause of dehydration. Caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it can lead to slight fluid loss. However, if you drink Nescafe in moderation (one or two cups per day) along with enough water, dehydration is unlikely to occur. Dehydration is more common when consuming excessive amounts of Nescafe without compensating for fluids or if you don’t drink enough water. The solution? Drink water alongside your Nescafe and maintain a balanced caffeine intake.

What Is Nescafe?

Nescafe is an instant coffee that can be prepared quickly and easily using dried coffee powder. The idea behind Nescafe is to provide a ready-to-brew coffee drink in minutes without the need to prepare coffee using traditional methods with ground coffee and hot water.

How Is Nescafe Made?

Nescafe is produced by drying coffee using two main methods:

Freeze-Drying: The liquid coffee is frozen and then dried under low pressure to turn it into a light powder.
Spray-Drying: The liquid coffee is sprayed into hot air, causing the water to evaporate and leaving behind dry coffee powder.

Preparation Method:

Nescafe is very easy to prepare. Simply add a teaspoon of the powder to a cup of hot water or milk, then stir the ingredients together to enjoy a delicious coffee drink. Some varieties come with sugar or milk already mixed in, such as Nescafe 3-in-1 instant coffee.

Types of Nescafe:

Regular Nescafe: The most common type, available as pure coffee powder.
Nescafe 3-in-1: A mix of coffee, sugar, and milk, allowing quick preparation without adding anything extra.
Flavored Nescafe: Available in flavors like vanilla, caramel, or chocolate.
Decaffeinated Nescafe: Ideal for those who want to avoid caffeine.

Why Nescafe?

Easy to prepare: No need for complicated tools or long brewing time.
Delicious taste: Offers a coffee flavor similar to freshly brewed coffee.
Versatile: Can be prepared with water or milk, with or without sugar.

History of Nescafe

Nescafe is one of the most famous instant coffee brands in the world, and its story began in the early 20th century. Here’s a detailed look at its history:

1. The Beginning – Early 20th Century

Nescafe was founded in 1938 by the Swiss company Nestlé with the aim of creating an instant coffee drink that was easy to prepare. The idea was to develop a faster way to make coffee compared to traditional brewing methods. Initially, Nescafe was made using the freeze-drying technique.

2. World War II (1939-1945)

During World War II, Nescafe became widely popular, especially among American soldiers who needed quick and easy-to-make beverages. Because it was an instant drink, it became a part of the daily military supplies for U.S. troops.

3. Post-War Global Expansion

After the war, Nescafe spread rapidly worldwide, especially in America and Europe. With the increasing demand for coffee, Nescafe became a convenient alternative to fresh coffee due to its ease of preparation and availability everywhere.

4. Evolution of Nescafe

Over time, Nescafe introduced new variations such as flavored Nescafe (vanilla, caramel, chocolate) and iced Nescafe. One of the most significant developments occurred in 1965, when Nestlé perfected the freeze-drying method, which improved the taste and quality of instant coffee.

5. Nescafe in the Modern Era

Today, Nescafe is an essential part of daily life in many countries. Whether in the form of instant sachets, ready-to-drink coffee beverages, or flavored varieties, it has gained massive popularity in homes and offices worldwide.

6. Nescafe in Egypt

In Egypt, Nescafe became widely popular in the 1990s, becoming a daily routine for many people, especially with the availability of single-serving instant sachets for quick preparation.

Nescafe Today

Nescafe is no longer just a simple coffee drink—it now comes in various types, such as Nescafe 3-in-1 (coffee with sugar and milk) and decaffeinated Nescafe, catering to different tastes.

Nutritional Value of Nescafe

Nescafe is generally low in nutrients, but if we look at 100 grams of classic Nescafe, it contains:

Calories: 363 kcal
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 68.20g
Sugar: 39.40g
Fiber: 23.8g
Protein: 22.50g
Sodium: 23 mg
Energy: 1519 kJ

However, some types of Nescafe contain additional ingredients like milk, creamer, cocoa, or chocolate, which enhance the nutritional variety of the drink.

Difference Between Coffee and Nescafe

Manufacturing Process:

Regular Coffee: Made by grinding coffee beans and brewing them traditionally with hot water.
Nescafe: Undergoes a more complex process involving brewing, hydration, and re-drying to create an instant coffee powder that dissolves quickly in water.

Taste:

Regular coffee typically has a stronger and richer flavor, especially when freshly brewed.
Nescafe, in some cases, has a milder taste, particularly the types without added milk or sugar.

Caffeine Content:

Nescafe contains less caffeine than regular coffee.
Some types of Nescafe are completely decaffeinated.

Caloric Content:

The calorie count in both regular coffee and Nescafe is relatively similar.
However, Nescafe can contain additional ingredients like milk, sugar, or chocolate, which increase its calorie content.

Potential Health Risks:

Nescafe contains higher levels of acrylamide, a potentially toxic substance formed during roasting, compared to regular coffee.
Regular coffee has more antioxidants, making it healthier in terms of fighting free radicals.

Health Benefits of Drinking Nescafe

Nescafe is not just a morning drink that wakes you up—it also has several health benefits when consumed in moderation. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Boosts Focus and Alertness ⚡

The caffeine in Nescafe stimulates the nervous system, helping to increase alertness and concentration, which is beneficial for studying, working, or staying awake after sleep.

2. Enhances Energy and Activity

If you feel sluggish or tired, a cup of Nescafe can give you an energy boost. Caffeine stimulates adrenaline release, improving physical performance and endurance.

3. Rich in Antioxidants

Nescafe contains a good amount of antioxidants, which protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of cancer and heart disease.

4. May Aid in Weight Loss ⚖️

Caffeine helps increase metabolism and supports the body in burning fat faster, making it beneficial for weight management and dieting.

5. Improves Mood and Reduces Stress ☕

Caffeine stimulates the release of dopamine (the "happiness hormone"), which can enhance mood, reduce stress, and even help with mild depression.

6. Lowers the Risk of Certain Diseases

Nescafe may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease by supporting brain health. It may also help lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity.

7. Quick and Easy to Prepare

Unlike traditional coffee, Nescafe can be prepared in seconds, making it a fast and convenient option, especially for busy mornings or work breaks.

Side Effects of Nescafe

While Nescafe has its benefits, excessive consumption—especially on an empty stomach—can lead to several health risks. Here’s a detailed look at the possible side effects of drinking too much Nescafe:

1. May Cause Insomnia and Sleep Disturbances

Caffeine is a strong stimulant, and drinking Nescafe late at night can keep you awake longer or cause restless sleep.

2. Increases Anxiety and Nervousness

Excessive caffeine intake can increase the release of adrenaline, leading to feelings of anxiety, nervousness, and even rapid heartbeats.

3. Affects the Stomach and Digestive System

Nescafe can cause acidity and acid reflux, especially if consumed on an empty stomach.
It stimulates the stomach to produce more acid, which can lead to stomach inflammation or ulcers, especially for those with digestive issues.

4. Can Lead to Caffeine Dependency ☕

If you drink Nescafe daily in large amounts, your body may develop a dependency on caffeine. Quitting suddenly may cause headaches, fatigue, and irritability.

5. Reduces Absorption of Essential Minerals

Drinking Nescafe immediately after meals can reduce iron absorption, potentially leading to anemia over time.
Caffeine increases calcium loss from bones, which can weaken bones and teeth over time.

6. Can Raise Blood Pressure

Caffeine can temporarily increase blood pressure, which might be risky for people with hypertension or heart conditions.

7. May Cause Dehydration

Since caffeine is a diuretic, drinking too much Nescafe without proper water intake can lead to dehydration and headaches.

8. Can Cause Heart Palpitations ❤️

Some people experience rapid or irregular heartbeats after consuming too much Nescafe, which can be concerning for those with heart conditions.

9. Affects Skin and Teeth Health

Caffeine reduces collagen production, which can accelerate skin aging and wrinkle formation.
Frequent consumption of Nescafe may cause tooth discoloration if proper oral hygiene is not maintained.

10. May Affect Pregnancy and Fertility

Excessive caffeine intake during pregnancy can increase the risk of miscarriage or affect fetal development.
High caffeine consumption may also impact female fertility by disrupting hormonal balance.

Side Effects of Drinking Nescafe on an Empty Stomach

Drinking Nescafe on an empty stomach (before eating anything) can have additional harmful effects, especially if it becomes a daily habit. Here’s how it can negatively impact your health:

1. Increases Stomach Acidity

Nescafe stimulates the stomach to produce digestive acids, which can cause heartburn and acid reflux. If you already have conditions like ulcers or acid reflux, this can worsen the symptoms.

2. Irritates the Stomach and Digestive Tract

The caffeine in Nescafe stimulates the nervous system, which can irritate the stomach lining, leading to bloating, nausea, or stomach discomfort.

3. Increases Stress Hormones and Anxiety

Drinking Nescafe on an empty stomach triggers adrenaline production, which can increase stress and anxiety levels, making you feel more jittery, especially in the morning.

4. Affects Blood Sugar Levels

Caffeine can cause a sudden spike in blood sugar levels, followed by a rapid drop, making you feel tired or hungry shortly after drinking it.

5. Reduces Absorption of Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Drinking Nescafe on an empty stomach can reduce the body’s ability to absorb essential nutrients like iron and calcium, leading to deficiencies over time.

6. Can Harm Dental Health

Since Nescafe is acidic, drinking it on an empty stomach can weaken tooth enamel, increasing the risk of tooth sensitivity and discoloration.

7. May Increase Anxiety and Insomnia

Caffeine enters the bloodstream quickly when consumed on an empty stomach, which can cause higher anxiety, nervousness, and sleep disturbances.

8. May Aggravate Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

For people with IBS or digestive issues, drinking Nescafe on an empty stomach can trigger bloating, gas, or stomach cramps.

To avoid these negative effects, it’s best to drink Nescafe after eating something, rather than on an empty stomach.

Side Effects of Nescafe for Pregnant Women

Drinking Nescafe during pregnancy is not a good idea if consumed in large amounts or daily, as it contains caffeine, which can negatively impact both the mother and baby. Here’s a detailed explanation of the risks:

Effects on the Baby

Impact on fetal development: Caffeine passes through the placenta to the baby. If a pregnant woman consumes large amounts of Nescafe, it can reduce blood flow to vital organs, affecting the baby’s proper growth.
Increased risk of miscarriage: Some studies suggest that consuming high amounts of caffeine during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage, especially in the first trimester.

Effects on Delivery

Preterm birth: Excessive caffeine intake can increase the risk of premature birth or low birth weight.

Effects on Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

Increased blood pressure: Caffeine can temporarily raise blood pressure, which may be dangerous for pregnant women with hypertension.
Increased heart rate: Large amounts of caffeine can cause rapid heartbeats, which can be uncomfortable or risky, especially for women with heart conditions.

Iron Deficiency

Reduced iron absorption: Caffeine can interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron, which is essential for preventing anemia and maintaining healthy blood circulation for both the mother and baby. Iron deficiency can lead to extreme fatigue and weakness.

Effects on Sleep

Insomnia and anxiety: Caffeine is a strong stimulant, which can cause difficulty sleeping, increased stress, and anxiety, especially in the later stages of pregnancy when the body needs more rest.

Effects on Digestion

Acidity and acid reflux: Nescafe can worsen heartburn and acid reflux due to increased stomach acid production. This can be uncomfortable, especially during pregnancy.

Increased Urination

Dehydration risk: Caffeine has a diuretic effect, meaning it increases urination, which can lead to dehydration if the mother doesn’t drink enough water to compensate.

How Much is Safe?

Pregnant women should limit caffeine intake to 200-300 mg per day, which is roughly one to two cups of Nescafe. Consuming more than this could pose health risks to both the mother and baby.

Side Effects of Nescafe for Children

Drinking Nescafe is not suitable for children, especially at a young age, due to the caffeine and other ingredients it contains. Here’s a detailed look at the potential risks:

1. Effects of Caffeine on a Child’s Growth

Caffeine is a strong stimulant, and when children consume Nescafe, it can lead to difficulty concentrating or insomnia.
Kids need proper sleep for brain and body development, and caffeine disrupts their sleep patterns, reducing the hours of rest they need.

2. Effects on Physical Growth

Caffeine increases metabolism, which can make children feel restless, anxious, or hyperactive.
It can interfere with calcium absorption, which may lead to weaker bones over time if consumed regularly.

3. Increased Risk of Anxiety and Nervousness

Children are more sensitive to caffeine than adults. Even small amounts can cause excessive nervousness, anxiety, mood swings, and irritability.

4. Sleep Disorders and Insomnia

Young children require more sleep for healthy development.
Drinking Nescafe or any caffeinated beverage disrupts their sleep cycle, leading to insomnia or poor-quality sleep.

5. Digestive Issues

Caffeine stimulates the production of stomach acid, which can cause heartburn, stomach pain, or digestive discomfort.
Since children have sensitive stomachs, Nescafe can cause nausea or bloating.

6. Increased Risk of Obesity

Some types of Nescafe contain added sugar and high-fat creamers (such as 3-in-1 Nescafe), which can increase calorie intake.
Regular consumption of sugary Nescafe can lead to weight gain and childhood obesity, especially if the child does not have a balanced diet.

7. Negative Effects on Dental Health

Nescafe contains acidic compounds that can damage tooth enamel and cause staining and cavities, especially if children do not practice good oral hygiene.

8. Impact on Behavior and Mood

Caffeine can increase hyperactivity and impulsive behavior in children.
Kids who consume caffeine may become more aggressive, irritable, or struggle with emotional regulation.