For many, that first sip of coffee or tea in the morning is a sacred ritual that kick starts the day. The rich aroma and warm, comforting flavour provide an energising boost to face the day ahead. Infact, drinking a cup of sugar free black coffee or tea is not harmful. The polyphenols in coffee beans can be beneficial for the microbiome. However, if you have an autoimmune disease, your beloved morning brew could be doing more harm than good. Here’s why those with autoimmune conditions need to be cautious about their coffee and tea consumption. 1. Impact on Adrenal Health: The caffeine found in coffee and tea is a stimulant that gives us that energising jolt we crave, but it also directly stimulates our adrenal glands. This can lead to an overproduction of the stress hormone cortisol. While a temporary spike in cortisol can be beneficial in acutely stressful situations, chronic elevated levels can be detrimental. Over time, this persistent stimulation can strain your adrenal glands, potentially leading to adrenal fatigue and disrupting your body’s ability to manage stress effectively.