Avoid these pairings: Coffee's impact on nutrient absorption

Many people reach for it as soon as the morning starts to boost their energy and begin the day well. It's served after lunch, sipped at work, or accompanied by an afternoon snack. There are indeed numerous benefits to drinking coffee, but it's worth remembering some products are better not served with this beverage.

It is often heard that coffee washes away vitamins, while others claim that it adversely affects the heart and can cause reflux. These myths, however, have been debunked, as coffee itself can be a truly healthy beverage, offering numerous benefits to our bodies. However, it's important to consume it in moderation and avoid serving coffee alongside certain products.

Coffee, though loved by many, can unfortunately negatively affect the absorption of some valuable nutrients if consumed alongside certain products. Coffee contains tannins, which bind with iron and zinc to form insoluble compounds. As a result, our bodies struggle to absorb them. Additionally, caffeine can affect digestive processes and hinder the absorption of some minerals. This is particularly important with specific products.

Lentils, beans, chickpeas, and peas are all rich sources of iron, especially for those on a vegetarian or vegan diet. Combining them with coffee can limit this element's absorption, so avoiding this pairing is advisable to enable your body to absorb all the necessary nutrients.

The situation is similar with beef, fish, chicken, or pork. These are good sources of protein and zinc. Drinking coffee during a meaty meal can reduce the absorption of the latter mineral, which may lead to skin problems, thyroid disorders, and weakened immunity.

This doesn't mean you have to give up your favourite drink. Firstly, in a well-balanced diet, sources of these elements are also found in other products, so drinking coffee with them occasionally shouldn't significantly affect your health.

If you can't give up your morning coffee, drink it at least an hour before or after a meal rich in iron or zinc. Additionally, sources of vitamin C, such as citrus fruits or peppers, help increase iron absorption. Add them to an iron-rich meal to enhance its absorption.