The Relationship Between Caffeine and Disordered Eating

Caffeine can sometimes be the only thing that we get up for, the saviour for those long, slow days, and the only thing keeping that work meeting interesting. But that beloved cup of coffee may also have a significant impact on your relationship with food. Let’s take a look at the relationship between caffeine and disordered eating.

1. Appetite Suppression: The "I’m Not Hungry!" Effect

Ever made your way through a large mug of coffee and suddenly thought, “Lunch? I don't need that anymore!” That's the caffeine working as a powerful appetite suppressant. For those dealing with disordered eating, this little appetite suppressant effect can be dangerously tempting. But skipping meals because your triple-shot latte has convinced you that you’re full, is not a great long-term strategy.

The Catch: While it feels like a win in the moment, relying on caffeine to avoid hunger can backfire. You might skip breakfast and lunch, but your body will catch on, and before you know it, you’re elbow-deep in the fridge at 10 PM. Lesson learned: caffeine is not a food group.

2. Caffeine and Anxiety: Partners in Crime

Caffeine and anxiety are the best of friends. Caffeine very clearly and directly drives anxiety and can make it worse. If you’re already prone to worrying about food, body image, or whether that text sounded too desperate, caffeine can crank up those anxiety levels.

The Spiral: More anxiety can lead to more comfort eating, which can lead to more anxiety about comfort eating. It’s a vicious cycle that you don't want to get stuck in.

3. Sleep Disruption: The Late Night Snack Trap

Have you ever found yourself lying in bed, wide awake and wired, because you thought an afternoon espresso was a good idea? Yep, caffeine strikes again. And when sleep is out the window, your body’s cravings for sugary, high-energy foods are in overdrive.

The Midnight Snack Station: When you aren't sleeping you are more vulnerable to late night eating. Lack of sleep weakens your resolve, making that leftover cake in the fridge look like the answer to all life’s problems.

4. Diet Culture and Caffeine

“Skinny lattes,” “diet coffee,” caffeine supplements and those energy drinks that promise to make you fit without leaving your chair—caffeine has been widely abused by the diet industry which promises it can change your appetite and your body.

The Bottom Line: Diet culture loves to pretend caffeine is the answer to all your problems (or at least the ones involving food). But overconsuming caffeine can be dangerous for both your mind and your body - not to mention your relationship with food.

Final Sip: Finding Balance

We can all enjoy a cup of tea or coffee without it affecting our relationship with food negatively. Understanding how your caffeine consumption affects your food choices can help you enjoy your coffee without letting it run the show. So, the next time you’re about to pour that second cup, ask yourself: Am I drinking this because I love the taste, or because I'm trying to suppress my appetite or avoid fueling and nourishing my body?

If you’re feeling like your coffee habit is taking over or your relying on those americanos to suppress your appetite, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at info@thefoodtherapyclinic.com for support. Because no one should have to face their struggles alone.