Cardiologist Andrey Kondrakhin has warned Russians that relying on coffee to repeatedly combat autumn fatigue can cause health complications, including heightened stress levels.
Speaking in an interview with Russian news outlet Life, the medical specialist explained that while drinking one or two cups of coffee daily is unlikely to pose problems, regular reliance on caffeine as an artificial stimulant creates extra physical strain when used to override persistent fatigue.
Health risks of artificial caffeinated stimulation
Kondrakhin, who practices as both a cardiologist and a general practitioner, noted that consuming large doses of caffeine can amplify the physical stress reaction within the body while simultaneously accelerating the loss of magnesium excreted through urine.
He explained that repeatedly drinking coffee in response to feeling tired directly triggers physical issues, warning that this habit produces elevated cortisol levels, chronic stress, and all the related health complications that accompany them.
Caffeine functions as a central nervous system stimulant that temporarily suppresses sleepiness by binding to adenosine receptors in the brain. However, when individuals consume high doses to override persistent fatigue, caffeine prompts the adrenal glands to produce additional cortisol, the primary hormone responsible for regulating stress, metabolism, and immune responses. Prolonged elevation of cortisol combined with increased urinary loss of magnesium can deplete an essential mineral required for muscle function, nerve signal transmission, and heart health.
During the transition into autumn, reduced daylight exposure alters natural circadian rhythms and increases the body production of melatonin, leading many people to experience heightened seasonal lethargy and daytime tiredness. Medical experts note that relying on chemical stimulants to force alertness during seasonal shifts prevents the body from receiving necessary restorative rest and recovery.
Moderate consumption and temperature warnings
Despite highlighting the dangers of coffee overuse, Kondrakhin emphasized that he is not calling for people to completely give up drinking coffee. He stated that moderate consumption will not cause harm if people drink coffee for personal enjoyment rather than attempting to compensate for severe sleep deprivation and overwork. Kondrakhin concluded that coffee will not cause any harm if people treat it with respect.
Dietary guidelines and cardiovascular research generally view moderate coffee intake, typically up to three or four cups per day, as safe for most adults. Moderate coffee consumption has been associated with beneficial antioxidant intake and temporary cognitive focus, provided it is consumed as part of a balanced lifestyle rather than as a substitute for sleep.
The warning from Kondrakhin follows earlier advice from epidemiologist Keren Papier regarding hot beverage consumption habits. Papier warned that drinking extremely hot coffee or tea increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer because recurring high temperatures cause regular tissue damage to the body.
Esophageal cancer occurs in the muscular tube that carries food and liquids from the throat to the stomach. Chronic exposure to liquids served at high temperatures can cause thermal trauma to the mucosal lining of the esophagus, causing persistent inflammation that increases cellular risk over time. Health guidelines recommend allowing freshly brewed hot beverages to cool for several minutes before drinking.
