Bangkok: Coffee, a beloved beverage worldwide, often comes with a range of warnings on social media. A recent compilation of the top five most popular stories about coffee drinking prohibitions has been scrutinized by experts to separate fact from fiction. The analysis aims to guide coffee enthusiasts on which claims are true and which should be critically evaluated before sharing.

According to Thai News Agency, here are the five most common warnings about coffee drinking, examined by experts:

1. Drinking Coffee on an Empty Stomach: It is often said that consuming coffee on an empty stomach can harm the stomach. Professor Dr. Amornrat Arunnuan from the Department of Tropical Nutrition and Food Science confirms this is true. The caffeine in coffee stimulates the stomach to secrete more hydrochloric acid, which can increase the risk of stomach ulcers over time.

2. Orange Coffee and Fatty Liver Disease: There is a claim that drinking “orange coffee” every morning may increase the risk of fatty liver disease. Dr. Wanaporn Thongchom, a professional dietitian, and Dr. Akkharawit Poolsombat, a gastroenterologist, affirm this is true, primarily due to the sugar added to the coffee, not the coffee itself. Excessive sugar consumption is converted to fat stored in the liver.

3. Coffee and Glaucoma: It is rumored that coffee consumption leads to glaucoma by causing high eye pressure. Professor Dr. Sakchai Wongkittirak clarifies that this is not true for the general population. However, people with existing glaucoma may find it harder to control their eye pressure if they consume coffee.

4. Coffee Consumption and Certain Diseases: Another myth is that individuals with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stomach problems, or vitamin B1 deficiency should avoid coffee. Dr. Benj Ongkwanich, a cardiologist, explains that while moderation is advised, coffee is not prohibited. It can be consumed in appropriate amounts unless the individual has severe symptoms.

5. Coffee and Medication Interactions: There is a cautionary tale about not mixing coffee with certain medications due to potential interactions. Pharmacist Pannita Boonklem confirms this warning is true. Caffeine can enhance the effects of some medications and reduce the efficacy of others. It is safest to take medications with plain water.

The article was fact-checked by Peerapol Anutthasoth and Akkrawut Tuwachirakul, with additional review by Chayanit Phongsai. The findings provide a better understanding of the science behind these popular coffee myths.