Consuming coffee regularly has not been shown to be harmful to those with multiple sclerosis. Some of its compounds could even help reduce neuroinflammation.
Most experts agree that regular coffee drinking is fine for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). The current research has not found any negative effects in those with MS.
In fact, some research suggests that coffee could be helpful. Coffee contains known anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds such as caffeine, polyphenols, and diterpenes. Because neuroinflammation plays a large role in the development of MS symptoms, coffee is not seen as harmful and may turn out to be beneficial.
In 2016, two studies found that high coffee consumption was associated with a decreased risk of developing MS. More research is still needed, but these early results are intriguing.
However! Other research suggests that dairy products such as milk may worsen MS symptoms. So, if you have MS, you can still stop for coffee — but you might want to skip the latte. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about how coffee or milk might be affecting your MS.
Get involved
If you have MS and enjoy your morning coffee run, you may be able to help researchers learn more about the possible benefits or interactions between coffee and MS. You can learn more about currently open studies and surveys at ClinicalTrials.gov.
Make sure to discuss participation in a clinical trial with your primary healthcare team, especially if it would involve any change to your ongoing treatment plan.
It’s no secret that caffeine can disrupt your sleep schedule, but did you know that at least 50% of people with MS already experience sleep disorders? If you’re among them, the caffeine in coffee may be a contributing factor.
Not getting enough sleep can also make other MS symptoms worse, so it’s important to protect your sleep schedule. If you feel that coffee is making it harder for you to fall or stay asleep, you can try restricting coffee drinking to earlier in the day or making the overall switch to decaf.
While coffee is not known to have negative effects in people with MS, talk with a doctor if you have concerns about how coffee is affecting your life with MS. This article also provides more information about MS treatments.
