why does homework make me feel sick

Is it time to get rid of homework? Mental health experts weigh in.

It's no secret that kids hate homework. And as students grapple with an ongoing pandemic that has had a wide range of mental health impacts, is it time schools start listening to their pleas about workloads?

Some teachers are turning to social media to take a stand against homework. 

Tiktok user @misguided.teacher says he doesn't assign it because the "whole premise of homework is flawed."

For starters, he says, he can't grade work on "even playing fields" when students' home environments can be vastly different.

"Even students who go home to a peaceful house, do they really want to spend their time on busy work? Because typically that's what a lot of homework is, it's busy work," he says in the video that has garnered 1.6 million likes. "You only get one year to be 7, you only got one year to be 10, you only get one year to be 16, 18."

Mental health experts agree heavy workloads have the potential do more harm than good for students, especially when taking into account the impacts of the pandemic. But they also say the answer may not be to eliminate homework altogether.

Emmy Kang, mental health counselor at Humantold , says studies have shown heavy workloads can be "detrimental" for students and cause a "big impact on their mental, physical and emotional health."

"More than half of students say that homework is their primary source of stress, and we know what stress can do on our bodies," she says, adding that staying up late to finish assignments also leads to disrupted sleep and exhaustion.

Cynthia Catchings, a licensed clinical social worker and therapist at Talkspace , says heavy workloads can also cause serious mental health problems in the long run, like anxiety and depression. 

And for all the distress homework  can cause, it's not as useful as many may think, says Dr. Nicholas Kardaras, a psychologist and CEO of Omega Recovery treatment center.

"The research shows that there's really limited benefit of homework for elementary age students, that really the school work should be contained in the classroom," he says.

For older students, Kang says, homework benefits plateau at about two hours per night. 

"Most students, especially at these high achieving schools, they're doing a minimum of three hours, and it's taking away time from their friends, from their families, their extracurricular activities. And these are all very important things for a person's mental and emotional health."

Catchings, who also taught third to 12th graders for 12 years, says she's seen the positive effects of a no-homework policy while working with students abroad.

"Not having homework was something that I always admired from the French students (and) the French schools, because that was helping the students to really have the time off and really disconnect from school," she says.

The answer may not be to eliminate homework completely but to be more mindful of the type of work students take home, suggests Kang, who was a high school teacher for 10 years.

"I don't think (we) should scrap homework; I think we should scrap meaningless, purposeless busy work-type homework. That's something that needs to be scrapped entirely," she says, encouraging teachers to be thoughtful and consider the amount of time it would take for students to complete assignments.

The pandemic made the conversation around homework more crucial 

Mindfulness surrounding homework is especially important in the context of the past two years. Many students will be struggling with mental health issues that were brought on or worsened by the pandemic , making heavy workloads even harder to balance.

"COVID was just a disaster in terms of the lack of structure. Everything just deteriorated," Kardaras says, pointing to an increase in cognitive issues and decrease in attention spans among students. "School acts as an anchor for a lot of children, as a stabilizing force, and that disappeared."

But even if students transition back to the structure of in-person classes, Kardaras suspects students may still struggle after two school years of shifted schedules and disrupted sleeping habits.

"We've seen adults struggling to go back to in-person work environments from remote work environments. That effect is amplified with children because children have less resources to be able to cope with those transitions than adults do," he explains.

'Get organized' ahead of back-to-school

In order to make the transition back to in-person school easier, Kang encourages students to "get good sleep, exercise regularly (and) eat a healthy diet."

To help manage workloads, she suggests students "get organized."

"There's so much mental clutter up there when you're disorganized. ... Sitting down and planning out their study schedules can really help manage their time," she says.

Breaking up assignments can also make things easier to tackle.

"I know that heavy workloads can be stressful, but if you sit down and you break down that studying into smaller chunks, they're much more manageable."

If workloads are still too much, Kang encourages students to advocate for themselves.

"They should tell their teachers when a homework assignment just took too much time or if it was too difficult for them to do on their own," she says. "It's good to speak up and ask those questions. Respectfully, of course, because these are your teachers. But still, I think sometimes teachers themselves need this feedback from their students."

More: Some teachers let their students sleep in class. Here's what mental health experts say.

More: Some parents are slipping young kids in for the COVID-19 vaccine, but doctors discourage the move as 'risky'

Sport and Competition

Is too much homework unhealthy, a grassroots movement led by parents is backed by science..

Posted October 10, 2014

This is the question at the heart of the homework debate. The Washington Post education reporter Jay Mathews wrote a powerful article: “ Parents Saying No to Too Much Homework .” The story was inspired by a chapter in the new book, The Learning Habit: A Groundbreaking Approach to Homework and Parenting That Helps Our Children Succeed in School and Life . (Perigee, 2014)

The Learning Habit separates fact from fiction about homework and has started a grassroots movement led by parents. Instead of encouraging a homework revolt, it asks for parents to institute a regular, balanced homework routine . This includes having children stop doing academic homework after a reasonable amount of time. When children can’t understand the assignment, parents will not make the children sit for extended time and try to help them figure it out; they will write a note on the paper asking the teacher for extra help.

At the root of the movement is science. It’s not developmentally appropriate to ask a third grader to sit for 120 minutes and complete an academic assignment. It’s also not psychologically healthy to have a fourth grader in tears every night over homework. The focus on a "the whole child" approach is resonating with parents and administrators in school districts such as Barrington, Rhode Island.

So how much academic homework should a child have?

10 minutes per grade in school, and then children can move onto other activities. If they don’t understand the assignment or get frustrated, they should stop and read a book for the remaining time.

The facts are clear when it comes to academic homework . There is a point of diminishing returns, and it is anything over 10 minutes per grade. We now understand that the concept of “homework” involves balancing many opportunities that provide our kids with healthy learning experiences.. Activities such as neighborhood play, sports, dancing, family time, chores, and sleeping are equally important for whole-child enrichment. Additionally, children who participate in extra-curricular activities such as sports, dance, and clubs score higher on academic, social and emotional scales.

• All students work at a different pace.
• Think big picture. Forcing a child to complete a homework assignment, after they have spent a reasonable amount of time on it (10 minutes per grade), is not promoting balance.
• Keep academic homework time balanced and consistent. On nights children don’t have schoolwork, they will read. Reading is important for both ELA and Mathematics.
• No tears policy: When kids feel frustrated or don’t understand an academic assignment, they can choose to read a book instead and ask the teacher for extra help the next day.

GET THE FACTS ON HOMEWORK: Fact Sheet Balanced Homework Habit

For more information on The Learning Habit (Perigee) click HERE

Rebecca Jackson is a neuropsychological educator and the co-author of The Learning Habit

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6 Signs Stress is Making You Sick (And What to do About it)

A little stress can actually be a good thing . In small spurts, it's what motivates you to prep for a major test or work presentation, or makes your palms go sweaty in anticipation of a first date. Too much stress, on the other hand, can be overwhelming emotionally – and even detrimental to your physical health.

"Just like our feelings give us information about our needs, so do our bodies through physiological feedback," says Eliza Chamblin , a therapist in New York City who specializes in stress management. "If you are noticing any physical or somatic symptoms, consider it as valuable information telling you that something isn’t right."

Not sure what those physical signs might be? Here are 6 potential indications that stress is making you sick, plus what to do for each situation.

1. You’re having trouble thinking clearly

If you’ve been having a tough time concentrating on one task at a time, remembering things accurately, or just generally operating on a higher level, stress could be to blame. Stress makes it difficult for you to think clearly, as it clouds your thinking and makes it difficult to focus.

This mental fatigue sometimes happens when small stressors pile in at a volume with which we can’t keep up. Things like making multiple tough decisions at work, handling ongoing interruptions, and juggling social commitments – all of these can accumulate and start to weigh on you (not to mention if your phone keeps going off at every step!). If you don't have a chance to hit the pause button and reset, brain fog could set in. Focus is a finite resource and when stretched thin, it falters.

The unfortunate reality of this mental fatigue is that it can affect your physical energy levels, too. If you’ve spent the whole day feeling exhausted just doing the tasks you that you normally knock out in one afternoon, your body will feel tired. For some, this perpetuates the stress cycle; no energy for stress-busting outlets like meditation , creative endeavors , or exercise means nowhere to release that stress, and it remains a looming burden.

What to do if stress is making you mentally fatigued:

• Try to pare down the number of decisions you make per day. Research shows that the more choices we make, the less energy and self-control we have afterwards. Simple ways to cut down on your daily decision load could mean streamlining your meal and outfit choices (e.g., ordering the same lunch every Monday; planning your wardrobe out every week).
• Try moving decision-heavy work meetings to the morning , or whenever you’re at your freshest. The ideal time will change based on whether you’re a morning person or a night owl.
• Stop multitasking . Spreading your attention and energy across too many verticals can, ironically, make you less productive. Stay with one assignment at a time; and if you can help it, avoid letting small tasks interrupt any big projects you're working on.
• Avoiding checking phone and email notifications for the first hour or so of your day. This will help you set your own mood and intentions for the day without being sidelined by work responsibilities , friend FOMO, or other stressful jolts.
• Give yourself dedicated time to “zone out.” Just like athletes need a rest day before they have a big competition, our brains also need downtime to replenish and get ready for additional work. Let your mind wander every day, whether that means taking an extra long shower, doodling in a notebook, or going for a walk with your phone set to airplane mode.
• Try one of these 10 subtle ways to handle stress at work .

2. You’ve been getting more headaches than usual (or they’re getting worse)

If you’re not typically susceptible to headaches, but have been inundated with them lately, stress could be the culprit. Often called “tension headaches,” these pesky head-throbbers happen when your neck and scalp muscles contract as a response to stress.

Symptoms of a tension headache include:

• Pain, tightness, or pressure in the front, sides, and/or top of your head
• Slight sensitivity to light and noise
• A headache that starts late in the day
• Difficulty focusing

And if you do normally get headaches or migraines, stress can both trigger and make them worse.

What to do if you’re experiencing tension headaches:

• Apply a cold compress or a heating pad to your head . Either hot or cold temperatures can help alleviate symptoms.
• Rub your hairline and temples with peppermint essential oil or tiger balm . Both have been found to be comparable treatment to medications like aspirin.
• Consider working with a therapist who specializes in biofeedback and/or relaxation techniques . Both of these approaches have been found to reduce frequency and intensity of tension headaches. [5, 6] Therapists who specialize in the physical manifestations of mindset or chronic illnesses are trained to help clients listen more to their bodies, decipher their bodies’ signs, and prioritize comfort.

Download Your Free 6 Signs Stress is Making You Sick (And What to do About it) Guide

3. you’re having digestive issues – but your diet hasn’t changed.

There’s a reason why stressful situations are called “gut-wrenching.” The brain and the gastrointestinal system are intimately connected — meaning the more stressed out your brain is, the unhappier your stomach will get.

Signs that your stomach isn’t handling extra stress well include:

• Stomach bloating
• Excessive gas
• Constipation
• Nausea or queasiness

What to do if you’re experiencing stress-related digestive issues:

• Avoid high-caffeine stimulants, especially coffee. That cup of java fuels nerves and bowels – worsening both stress and stomach issues.
• Try gentle yoga movements , like legs-up-the-wall pose or restorative child's pose.
• See your medical doctor, so you can rule out any underlying physical conditions , like food allergies or side effects from medications.
• Try out therapy types like cognitive behavioral therapy or relaxation therapy. Both of these may help you manage your reactions to perceived stressors.

4. Your skin has been extra sensitive lately

When stress takes the wheel, it’s not uncommon for our bodies to go into overdrive. All this hype throws the nervous system, including nerve endings on your skin, off-balance.

Signs that stress has gotten under your skin include:

• Acne: Since acne is an inflammatory disease, stress doesn’t directly cause it – but the hormones that stress releases do increase inflammation, thereby exacerbating it.
• Rashes: An overwhelm of stress can spur a rash, often in the form of raised, red-colored spots known as hives.
• Eczema and psoriasis: If you already have a chronic skin condition, stress can be an emotional trigger that makes it worse.

What to do if you’re experiencing stress-related skin issues:

• For acne, try applying ice cubes made from green tea . The polyphenols in it have been found to be beneficial in the treatment of acne.
• For hives, apply a cool compress to the affected area . Not only does this feel relieving, but it also helps with the inflammation.
• If you find yourself perpetuating the skin issues, try habit reversal training : Skin conditions such as eczema can be self-perpetuating; you might scratch the affected area when you're stressed, for example. You might also find yourself picking at your skin . If that's the case, develop your own methodology of habit-reversal training. First, try to raise internal awareness of the habit, since you may be doing it without even realizing it. Then, intercept the impulse by clenching your fist or occupying your hands by writing something down with a pen and paper.

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5. You’re getting back-to-back colds

One of the cruelest ironies of our physical systems is that when we’re at our most stressed, we’re also the most susceptible to catching a cold.

Why? When you’re at overall healthy stress levels, cortisol (the “stress hormone”) is able to do its regular thing of regulating your body’s suitable response to viruses and bacteria.

But when you’re chronically stressed, your body is pumping excess cortisol, and your immune system grows less sensitive to the stuff. In turn, your body is less able to regulate an inflammatory response, and therefore, more likely to succumb when exposed to a virus.

What to do if you’re getting stress-related colds:

• Take a hot bath with Epsom salts. Not only are hot baths soothing for a cold, but studies have also shown that magnesium (found in Epsom salts) help stabilize moods and relieve stress.
• Get seven to eight hours of sleep every night to boost your immune system . This will give your brain time to rest (no notifications when you’re asleep!) and recharge, while also allowing your body to reset its chemical balance.
• Drink your vitamin beet: One study found that a few glasses of beet juice can help keep colds at bay. The red juice is high in dietary nitrate, which increases the body’s production of nitric oxide. That, in turn, can help protect your body against respiratory infections.

6. Your sex drive is down

In periods of chronic stress, the excess cortisol that's produced can suppress sex hormones. And fewer sex hormones = a lower libido.

And then there's the mental aspect of it, too. The distracting nature of stress (thinking about your massive to-do list, for example, or anxiety about paying off bills) may prevent you from being present in the moment for sex, or wanting to engage in it at all. Talk about a downer!

What to do if stress is killing your sex drive:

• Spend intimate time with your partner – even if it’s not sex time . Doing so can produce the same feelings you might get from sex, like closeness and overall calm, which are natural defenses against stress.
• Consider seeing a sex therapist . If your brain is running on constant overdrive due to stress, it can be hard to switch gears and be present in the bedroom. A sex therapist can help you unpack what’s going through your mind, how it’s affecting your sex life, and provide counsel on what steps you can take to get back to being intimate. You can find sex therapists near you by filters Zencare’s therapist directory by Specialties.

Consider working with a therapist!

If you're struggling to determine your triggers and manage your reactions, consider working with a therapist to help you find ways to better understand and handle your stress. Stress may be inevitable, but it doesn't have to damage your physical health. Many therapists specialize in helping clients unwind from their stress — which can look many different ways! Some therapists teach clients how to recognize stressors and change their behaviors. Other therapists take a holistic approach to finding balance. This diversity in approach means that you can find a therapist that fits perfectly with your personality and preferences to help you with your stress. Finding a high-quality therapist will not be another stressful item on your to-do list when you use Zencare.

Read Next: More On stress

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What To Do With Your Intrusive Thoughts

What happens when we let our minds wander and they land on something distressing that doesn’t align with our beliefs or wishes? Intrusive thoughts can be upsetting. Knowing more about intrusive thoughts, however, might put you at ease the next time they happen.

Tips for Staying Caught Up on Homework While Sick

On January 24, 2024, I woke up with a headache and a 99.4 temperature. I did not have a class that day until 11 a.m., so I waited to see if it would go down. Long story short, I had the flu, and missed a week’s worth of assignments. Even as I was sick in bed, watching plenty of movies, what stayed on my mind the most was the homework that I needed to catch up on.

It is important to maintain an up-to-date status on schoolwork, even when sick. When students are ill, their mindset is typically on trying to get better, and justifiably so. However, that results in students having to make up work after they get back, on top of having to do all of the work that is assigned after they make their return. However, through this entire process, there are some things that students can do in order to work through their period of medical misfortune.

• Get in Contact with Your Teachers

Believe it or not, teachers want to do everything they can to help you succeed! Even though different teachers have different policies on late work, if you are sick, they will almost always aid you however they can. In an interview with one of SNU’s faculty members, Melany Kyzer, Ph. D., expressed how even though she does not accept late work, “if a student communicates with me ahead of time, I will work with them.” Even though it is wise to make sure your work is finished in a timely manner, teachers will give grace on assignments as needed, allowing for the best results to be produced.

• Work On What You Can

When I was out with the flu, my condition went up and down, and I certainly had days in which I felt better than others. On those days, I worked on homework. However, it is still important for the body to rest, so do not overwork yourself. I would recommend doing one normal-sized or two smaller assignments on the days in which you feel better in order to make some progress while still allowing yourself some rest.

Speaking of resting, this is the most surefire way to get better. Even though students are stressed about the assignments they may have to do when they get back, the best way to get back is to rest your body and mind. This could take many forms, whether it be watching movies, doing a relaxing activity, or just sleeping your sickness off. Doing this will not only allow you to be at your best when you return to school but also possibly speed up the healing process as well.

It is difficult to be able to complete every assignment that is given out while a student is out for multiple days, or in my case, a full week of class. However, these tips can help to reduce the problem that comes from being sick. It allows students to lighten their load for when they get back while also obtaining some grace from their teachers and letting their bodies heal from whatever sickness afflicts them. Being sick is certainly a pain, but it should not keep students from excelling in the classroom or being the best version of themselves that they can be.

Photo by Kristine Wook on Unsplash

5 Reasons Why You Might Be Feeling Sick at Work

Kayla Matthews

Do you find yourself sneezing all day long at work? Or maybe you feel nauseated at just the thought of arriving at work? Your office may be making you sick.

Contrary to popular belief, these symptoms don’t just have to be physical ones – your office could be making you mentally ill, too. Here are the top 5 ways that your job could be making you sick.

1. Your Desk Is Causing Back Pain

One of the most common complaints of a desk job is back pain since so many people have poor posture when seated at their desks. Poor posture puts pressure on your lower back, causing aches as wells as sharp pains from pinched nerves. If poor posture continues long enough, it will also begin to affect the curvature of your spine.

Check-in with yourself a few times a day and monitor your posture, realigning it as needed. You can set a reminder on your work calendar if you think you’ll forget. Even better, have a coworker remind you and help each other stay accountable.

2. Constantly Typing Is Causing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Pain or numbness in your hands and arms could be indicative of carpal tunnel syndrome. This is caused by the constant pressure typing puts on the tendons in your hands.

To help prevent this, try to take breaks from your typing. Stretching before and after long periods of typing can also be helpful. If you’re already experiencing symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, see your doctor to discuss the best treatment plan.

3. Allergens Are Making You Sneeze All Day

If you’re constantly sneezing at work, you might be allergic to work – or catching your desk buddy’s cold. Dizziness and fatigue could also be signs of poor air quality in your office . Indoor pollutants like mold from water damage, or even carbon monoxide that enters the office through air vents can cause poor air quality.

Prevent the spread of germs through frequent handwashing and sanitization. Wipe down your mouse and keyboard every week, since they are notorious hiding spots for bacteria. If you suspect pollutants are plaguing your office instead of germs, bring your concerns to your supervisor or HR department.

4. You Don’t Enjoy Your Workday

Physical symptoms aren’t the only possible manifestation of work-related illness. Many people suffer from depression or anxiety because they feel “stuck” in their job, have a boss that stresses them out  or don’t have a work-life balance. If you’re sleeping more or less than the recommended amount of seven to nine hours, feel unmotivated, or even feel physically ill but can’t find a cause, your job could be taking a mental toll on you.

Try to take breaks throughout your workday and get outside. If you feel overwhelmed, ask a supervisor or a coworker to help you find a better way to manage your schedule. If you want to find a different job but that isn’t a viable option for you right now, try to focus on the parts of your job that you can make better, not the parts you don’t have control over.

Most importantly, be open to the possibility of professional help if you need it. A listening ear can go a long way in helping you feel better.

5. You Can’t Sleep Because of Work-Related Stress

Stress isn’t only a mental burden; muscle tension, headaches, and the inability to sleep are all symptoms of stress. If you’re feeling tired or unfocused at work, it could be sleep-related.

Make sure you’re getting enough quality sleep. Getting 8 hours of sleep doesn’t matter as much if it’s low-quality sleep – do you wake up every hour? Toss and turn? Can’t fall back asleep after waking up once? All these things will impact your sleep and your workday.

Ensuring a healthy work-life balance will go a long way in reducing your stress and helping you sleep better. Try not to do work at home or outside of your working hours – even reading and answering emails – and keep a regular work schedule.  

Now you have some ideas about what could be causing you to feel sick at work. Don’t hesitate to start making changes for the betterment of your health. Even the smallest actions, like taking a five-minute walk during the day, can leave you feeling healthier, happier, and more satisfied with your job.

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What to Do When Work Stress (Literally) Makes You Sick

• Regan Walsh

When you experience anxiety, write down what’s happening around you.

High-pressure jobs can create psychological stress that is severe enough to have physical effects, from chronic headaches to nausea to insomnia. Severe stress has even been known to cause strokes. If we find ourselves in the kind of job that is resulting in a hit to our health, we must take intentional steps to better our body and mind. First, try to identify the source of your stress. At the onset of your physical symptoms, write down what’s happening to you and around you. Second, make sure you’re getting enough exercise and mental downtime, voicing your concerns to others, and setting healthy boundaries. Finally, if none of these things seem to be working, consider finding a new job.

Alyson was 35 when she had a stroke.

• RW Regan Walsh is an NYU-certified Executive and Life Coach who helps seasoned and emerging leaders thrive in work and life. She’s worked with successful clients from New York to Portland and proudly calls Columbus, Ohio, home. For more information, visit www.reganwalsh.com .

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How to Study when Sick: Tips for the Freshman Flu

Introduction weeks are over, classes are about to start and the freshman flu lurks in hidden corners. While being sick is a chore, falling ill right at the start of the school year can be a major setback. It's safe to say that runny noses and fever dreams don't help with productivity. But who says that finals can't rhyme with the flu? If you're like me and happen to be both bed and book-ridden here are a couple of tips to get you through your first couple weeks of classes.

Pomodoro it

The Pomodoro method consists of working in 4 sets of 25 min with a 5min break in between each round and a longer break ranging from 15 to 30 min after 4 sets. The division of the Pomodoro into 25/5/15 is completely up to you. Many people customize their Pomodoro timing to best fit their workflow. The most important aspect is that alternation between mid-sized work sessions and short breaks which can keep you focused on the task at hand for longer. What makes the Pomodoro Method perfect for studying when sick is that each task is naturally divided into feasible increments. You can even take 5 min naps during your breaks! Check out the best timers for the Pomodoro method in our article about improving study habits .

Yeah, it's tempting to stay holed up in your room surrounded by textbooks and/or tissues. However, sometimes a breath of fresh air is exactly what you need to get some energy. Just taking a 5 min walk (bonus points if it's during your Pomodoro break) can help clear your head and potentially your sinuses. If you don't feel like going outside, take some time to stretch and relax your muscles. Exercise is a great way to get your blood flowing which will make you feel better.

Drink some water

I'm pretty sure that water is in every listicle out there from dealing with skincare to depression but it's worth the emphasis: don't forget to drink water and stay hydrated! Water helps produce saliva and mucus which are both very handy when fighting a sore throat or a dry nose. Water also helps regulate your body temperature. Our bodies are 60% water so it's needless to say that it plays a vital role in the basic maintenance of our bodies. No matter the pace you've decided to study at you need to stay hydrated in order to maintain said pace and eventually get better.

Proactively study

When you're sick, you don't have the leisure to passively intake information and hope it sticks. Start by dividing all you have to study into small realizable steps and ordering them by priority. This will help you get through the day without feeling overwhelmed. Make flashcards and test yourself on key terms. Instead of repeatedly reading information, by writing it down you engage with the material in a different way. Have a group video call where you explain and present some of the information with your friends. Again, this is another way of engaging with the material: if you can explain a concept well then you probably know it. Don't focus as much on rote memorization as much as contextualized understanding.

Healthy snacks

Studying and being sick are both physically draining activities that when combined tend to have a negative effect on each other. Along with water, food is what will get you through a last-minute cram session without crashing. Why healthy? Though it is tempting to eat your exhaustion and stress away, you do still need to take care of yourself. Food is fuel so you'll need the best kind if you plan to study when sick.

A cozy environment may induce napping but comfort is always worth it. Grab some tea, coffee or hot water, blankets and whatever painkillers you're on to create an environment that's both studious and soothing. Studying when you're sick is hard enough. There's no need to make it worse by sitting at a badly lit desk for 5 hours straight surrounded by empty packets of tissues. Create a space you want to be and study there.

So you've written 5 to-do lists, went boxing, ate some carrots, drank 5L of water, incarnated hygge and you still don't feel okay... what now? Most of the time students are victims of the belief that every occasion is the last. If you're too sick to study and can't make it to class then don't go. There's no point in worsening your physical and mental health for something that definitely won't impact your life as much as you think it will. You can take resits, or ask for an extension or even god forbid take that class again. Nothing is worth ruining your health for, not even the illusion of a college degree.

If it's really bad, don't forget to take advantage of your health insurance and go to a doctor. Don't have Dutch health insurance yet? Check out Swisscare International Student Insurance if you’re a student within the EU/EEA.

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Signs your job is making you sick

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Do you leave your job most days feeling emotionally and physically drained? While few people love going to work every day, the number of days you're happy to head to the office should definitely outnumber the ones you spend wishing the day was already over.

If you're spending more time dealing with emotional stress and physical illnesses, it might be time to take a look at the environment you're in. Because for some of us, our work day makes up the majority of our waking hours, which is what makes a stressful workspace all the more troubling.

Is work-related stress making you sick?

If you've spent time in at least a few different jobs in your lifetime then you're bound to have come across an environment that is less than desirable, which can wreak havoc on your overall health, productivity and happiness.

In fact, there's a good chance you currently work in a job that is doing just that. According to recent research by Mind and YouGov, more than half (56%) of workers find work very or fairly stressful.

Sure, stress is something we all deal with from time to time. But what happens when the toxicity of your work environment begins to impact your health negatively?

Dr Ellie Cannon, GP and author of the book Is Your Job Making You Ill? , says a stressful work environment can affect people in a huge number of ways, ranging from single symptoms to fully blown illnesses.

"Physical health problems can include headaches, insomnia, irritable bowel syndrome and high blood pressure. It is also common for people to find their stressful work environment worsens chronic conditions they already have - for example, in someone suffering chronic pain or a skin condition such as psoriasis ," she explains.

While stress itself is not a mental health problem, Emma Mamo, head of workplace well-being at Mind , says stress that is prolonged and unmanageable can lead to mental health problems like depression and anxiety .

If you're experiencing prolonged stress at work, you might be wondering what other physical and emotional signs you should watch out for.

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What are the signs to look for?

The symptoms can be wide-ranging and variable, so really understanding the timing of symptoms is key, says Cannon. That's why she recommends keeping a symptom diary for at least four weeks, documenting your symptoms, the date and the situation you are in. A clear pattern of weekly symptoms would be seen if work were making you ill.

After the four weeks are up, go back and look for key signs that your job may be making you sick. Mamo says that even though unmanageable stress affects us all in different ways, there are some common signs to look out for, including:

• Feeling irritated.
• Drinking or smoking excessively.
• Finding it hard to sleep.
• Struggling to concentrate.
• Feeling really upset and emotional.
• Frequent crying spells.
• Upset stomach.
• Difficulty breathing.
• Blood pressure problems (if the stress is severe enough).

If your journal is pointing to several of these signs, it's time to take action. Cannon says to start talking about the issue with your family, your doctor and even your employer to see if there are realistic ways to ameliorate what you are going through. Sometimes just a change in role, working pattern or shifts, for example, can all help minimise stress.

What can you do about it?

For a variety of reasons, leaving a less-than-perfect situation is not always an option for people. Because of this, you may find yourself stuck in a negative and stressful work environment for much longer than you'd like, so finding ways to cope is critical.

In order to combat the negative aspects of your job, Cannon suggests building up your resilience and health in other ways so you have more capacity to cope with the stress at work. For example, focus on your sleep, exercise and life goals.

"Just because you may be used to going to bed late and coping with it, there may still be room for improvement in your sleep," she says. "Try going to bed earlier for a few nights and see how that makes you feel."

Exercise is another important tool that can help you manage stress. If you exercise consistently, consider working out before or after work. You may find that starting the morning with exercise helps clear your head before you go to work, while exercising after your work day is done, allows you to work out the physical and mental frustrations you may have experienced during the day. Regardless of when you choose to do it (although you should avoid exercising directly before bedtime), just make sure exercise is a part of your overall plan.

Having other interests outside of work to aim for and enjoy is another great way to maintain your mental well-being. Cannon says this gives you the chance to have goals and successes, and the chance to socialise and build up your support network; it also gives you a distraction from your stress and your troubles.

She suggests you make room in your work week for the people in your life who make you feel good, and spend quality time with them, which is a proven stress reliever. But don't just say you're going to do it: prioritise it and make sure you're connecting with people you trust every day.

"Research shows that having supportive relationships with colleagues at work helps to lessen the impact of a stressful working environment," Cannon explains.

How to reduce work stress

Being proactive in other areas of your life can also help minimise the negative effects your work-related stress is having on you. Mamo, along with Mind , recommends the following tips to help you do just that:

Identify your triggers

Working out what triggers stress or poor mental health for you can help you anticipate problems and think of ways to solve them.

Organise your time

Making some adjustments to the way you organise your time could help you feel more in control of any tasks you're facing, and more able to handle pressure. Mamo recommends identifying the best time of day for you to do important tasks. She also says to make a list of the things you have to do and arrange them in order of importance. And of course, try not to do too much at once.

Address some of the causes

Although there will probably be lots of things in your life that you can't do anything about, there might still be some practical ways you could resolve or improve some of the issues putting pressure on you, such as problems with relationships, debt and housing.

Accept the things you can't change

It's not easy, but accepting that there are some things happening to you that you probably can't do anything about will help you focus your time and energy more productively.

The bottom line is this: if your job is making you sick, you need to talk to your employer and/or doctor. They can help you come up with a plan to reduce the stressors at work, refer you to any professional help you may need, and hopefully, offer support while you take the necessary steps to care for your health.

The surprising ways stress can affect your body

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I have GAD which has been causing lots of problems for years. It started with anxiety and racing thoughts, followed by 6 days of no sleep. This was about 10 years ago. Since then I have been on... thomas31806

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• Coping with Illness

How to Get Work Done While Sick

Last Updated: March 25, 2024 References

This article was co-authored by Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM . Shannon O'Brien is the Founder and Principal Advisor of Whole U. (a career and life strategy consultancy based in Boston, MA). Through advising, workshops and e-learning Whole U. empowers people to pursue their life's work and live a balanced, purposeful life. Shannon has been ranked as the #1 Career Coach and #1 Life Coach in Boston, MA by Yelp reviewers. She has been featured on Boston.com, Boldfacers, and the UR Business Network. She received a Master's of Technology, Innovation, & Education from Harvard University. There are 13 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 119,517 times.

When we are sick, the best thing to do is to sleep, hydrate, and focus on getting better. However, many of us do not have the option of taking time off to recover. Many workers don't have paid sick leave options, and others might worry about getting behind on work or school during sick days. [1] X Research source As many as 90% of workers have gone in to work sick. [2] X Research source If you absolutely have to get work done while sick, you can alleviate your symptoms and break tasks down into simpler components in order to be productive.

Maintaining Your Productivity While Sick

• If you have a high fever (over 101 degrees Fahrenheit) or spots on your throat, you might have to consult your physician. You should also talk to your doctor if you have trouble staying hydrated or if your symptoms do not get better after a few days. [4] X Research source
• Many workers cannot afford to take time off because of illness. If this is the case, then you will have to find ways to take care of yourself even while working.

• In order for telecommuting to work, you will likely require a secure laptop and a high-speed internet connection as well as a reliable phone.

• For example, rather than putting together an entire presentation, tell yourself that you will simply make one slide at a time. After each slide is complete, allow yourself a break to recover: take a short nap or drink some tea.

• For example, a day when you are ill might be an excellent time to do mundane, mindless tasks like cleaning out your email inbox, filing documents, or putting together next month's calendar. Try to avoid tasks that require high-level thinking, such as writing a crucial research report.
• It is also a good idea to work on first drafts instead of final drafts of papers and projects. [6] X Research source You can reread your drafts when you are feeling more like yourself. This will reduce the likelihood of major errors in the final version.

• If your coworkers help you with your duties, be sure that you express your gratitude and that you return the favor when your colleagues feel ill.

Taking Care of Your Symptoms

• Consider asking a friend or family member to pick up these supplies for you if you are too under the weather to leave the house.

• Avoid alcohol while you are sick because it can dehydrate you and slow your recovery time.

• When you use nasal spray, be sure that you keep facial tissues or a handkerchief nearby. You will likely have to blow your nose immediately after using the spray.

• Don't combine medications to ensure that you don't experience adverse reactions. [19] X Research source Be sure that you read the instructions carefully, take only the recommended dosage, and be on the lookout for allergic reactions. Even over-the-counter medications can cause side effects: do not treat them like candy.

Preventing Spread of Illness

Expert Q&A

• The best way to remain productive at work or school is to avoid getting sick . Keep yourself vaccinated, get your flu shot every year, wash your hands frequently, and avoid touching your face in order to keep yourself healthy. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Workplaces should prevent presenteeism (when workers show up ill, possibly to the detriment of the company) as much as possible. If you are in a management position, advocate for paid sick leave to make sure that your employees come to work healthy. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

• Remember that going in to school or the office while sick might not just be bad for your recovery time: it might also expose your colleagues to your germs. Keep this in mind when you decide whether or not to go in to the office. Thanks Helpful 21 Not Helpful 3
• Do not endanger your health for the sake of your work. If you cannot stay hydrated, if you have trouble breathing, if your fever is high, or if your symptoms do not improve after a few days, you need to see a doctor. Your work is not worth endangering yourself. Thanks Helpful 22 Not Helpful 4

You Might Also Like

• ↑ http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2014/02/19/working-while-sick_n_4818685.html
• ↑ http://nypost.com/2014/03/23/why-going-to-work-sick-isnt-helping-your-career/
• ↑ https://hbr.org/2004/10/presenteeism-at-work-but-out-of-it
• ↑ http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/cold-guide/common-cold-too-sick-to-work
• ↑ http://corporette.com/2009/11/16/open-thread-working-while-youre-sick/
• ↑ http://www.entrepreneur.com/article/236214
• ↑ Shannon O'Brien, MA, EdM. Life & Career Coach. Expert Interview. 25 May 2021.
• ↑ http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacquelynsmith/2014/01/07/12-tips-for-staying-productive-at-work-through-the-bleak-winter-months/
• ↑ http://www.getspokal.com/too-busy-to-be-sick-heres-how-to-stay-productive-when-sick/
• ↑ http://symptoms.webmd.com/cold-and-flu-map-tool/getting-through-day-while-sick
• ↑ http://symptoms.webmd.com/cold-and-flu-map-tool/getting-through-day-while-sick?page=2
• ↑ http://www.sfcdcp.org/healthyhabits.html
• ↑ http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/homehygiene/Pages/prevent-germs-from-spreading.aspx

About This Article

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The content of this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, examination, diagnosis, or treatment. You should always contact your doctor or other qualified healthcare professional before starting, changing, or stopping any kind of health treatment.

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Here’s why your body makes you feel like crap when you’re sick

Senior Lecturer & ARC Future Fellow, The University of Melbourne

Disclosure statement

Olivia Carter receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

University of Melbourne provides funding as a founding partner of The Conversation AU.

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It is hard to find the words to describe how I feel at the moment because my brain is only working at about 10% capacity. At least I made it to work today. This is an improvement on last week, when I decided to stay home after waking up exhausted with a warm and unpleasant throbbing pressure spreading into my eyeballs and across my sinuses.

I don’t know exactly what flavour of miscellaneous virus I currently have, but I am also sure it doesn’t really matter much anyway. My symptoms of coughing, mild fever, loss of appetite, lethargy and generally feeling crappy represent the familiar and generalised response of the body to the countless viruses responsible for cold and flue like symptoms experienced by most of the population every winter.

This symptom cluster is now often referred to as “sickness behaviour”, and is something I have been meaning to write about for a while because it is such a big part of my family’s life.

I should clarify that overall we are an extremely healthy bunch, but it is simply impossible to avoid catching different things with three kids exposed to the germ smorgasbord provided by their three different day-care/kinder/school environments. And that’s to say nothing about my own daily exposure to the diverse university student and staff population.

There is now increasing evidence that the wide range of symptoms that are frequently experienced with illness reflects a coordinated response to molecular products – cytokines – associated with the activation of the body’s immune system.

It now appears that there may be specialised processes in the brain that detect elevated levels of cytokines and then trigger the subsequent full range of effects that sickness can have on a person’s subjective experience and behaviour:

• Increased sleep and general lethargy
• Loss of interest or motivation for usual activities
• Increased pain sensation
• Reduced appetite
• Depressed mood
• Decreased social interaction
• Impaired concentration

While the existence of sickness behaviour is not particularly controversial – most of us will have had personal recent experience with it – the exact mechanisms and pathways underlying these responses remain a mystery.

Based on the obvious overlap in symptomatology, a few have suggested that impaired, heightened or persisting sickness behaviour may have some role to play in more severe clinical conditions such as major depression and chronic fatigue syndrome. However, the evidence for these links is still very unclear.

Other researchers have asked why the body would have a distinct system apparently designed to make us feel so horrible. Particularly if it does turn out to be true that the these symptoms are really just an indirect form of “collateral damage” that is separate from the front-line attack of the immune system on the underlying infection.

This is a hard question to answer based on detailed scientific evidence. It is however, easy to imagine a possible evolutionary benefit to one’s family and local community if the level of social engagement of sick individuals was reduced through this type of self-imposed quarantining mechanism.

The more specific symptoms of pain and fever also require further investigation. A recent review published in the journal Brain, Behaviour and Immunity asks whether fever and sickness behaviour is friend or foe.

It concludes that fever and sickness behaviour are likely to have evolved to protect organisms and improve outcomes. However, it also finds no direct evidence that using over-the-counter medications to reduce the symptoms of pain and fever impairs recovery or causes any other adverse effects (beyond the mild effects such as increased in drowsiness and nausea sometimes caused by these medications).

Given the huge economic cost in terms of lost productivity, there are clear reasons why better management of the symptoms of sickness behaviour is important.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that between 5-10% of adults and 20-30% of children are infected by the influezna virus every year. This, of course, does not include the less serious versions of the common cold that effect the community at even higher rates.

It is not surprising, then, that the economic costs of colds and flu to Australia is informally estimated at between A$30-50 billion annually (in the last five years no formal estimate has been conducted for Australia).

From the financial perspective, it is clear that the sooner people can get back to work the better. Unfortunately, the ability to manage the symptoms of sickness behaviour before the underlying illness has been overcome will only increase the likelihood the underlying bug will be transmitted to family, friends and colleagues.

This is why many government and industry bodies now strongly encourage, and often support the cost, of annual flu vaccinations . It is definitely a case of prevention being better than a cure.

Back at our house, I seem to be through the worst of the symptoms. However, based on the resent conversation I had with my 4-year-old, I fear it might be a while before sickness behaviour is done with our family

Me: What would you like for breakfast?

Max: Nothing

Me: Do you want to go to the park?

Max: No I don’t want to go anywhere

Me: What would you like to do then?

Max: I want to do a puzzle. But when I am sick I only do one piece and you have to do the rest…. when I am sick.

Me: When do you think you will start feeling better?

Max: After all of the numbers on the clock run out

Me: You mean at the end of time?

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They’re feeling a total eclipse of their health.

Excitement isn’t the only feeling in the air ahead of this afternoon’s much-anticipated solar eclipse .

Many concerned social media users are claiming that the cosmic overlap is causing them to suffer from “eclipse sickness,” with symptoms like insomnia, headaches and even wonky menstrual cycles.

These allegations of somatic foreshadowing surfaced in the week leading up to Monday’s celestial event, which will see the moon shroud the sun, plunging large swathes of the US into darkness for up to several minutes.

Needless to say, concerned parties accused the pending totality of putting their health in retrograde.

“Any of u also experiencing headache bc of the solar eclipse?” inquired one under-the-weather X user .

Another concerned citizen declared , “Been feeling physically sick for a few days now and I feel like it’s because of the Mercury retrograde and the upcoming solar eclipse. Does anyone else feel off/sick these days?”

“A lot of people talking about the Total Solar Eclipse and Full moon… but us anyone else actually FEELING it,” claimed a third. “This just has me wiped out feeling weird.”

“Anyone else suffering from weird insomnia, no appetite and other weird s–t that can’t be explained,” fretted another worrywart. “Someone told me the eclipse might have something to do with it but I don’t get how. What the f–k is going on?”

As in years past , many even blamed the eclipse for messing with their menstrual cycles .

Fortunately, scientists haven’t yet found a correlation between totality and human health, indicating that this appears to be nothing more than a case of cosmic hypochondria.

“There is no physical relationship between a total solar eclipse and your health, any more than there is a relationship between your health and a new moon,” NASA declared on its website during the Great Eclipse Of 2017. “Among a random sample of people, you may find such correlations from time to time but they are outnumbered by all the other occasions during which your health was excellent.“

Everything to know about the 2024 solar eclipse

• The solar eclipse will take place Monday, April 8, blocking the sun for over 180 million people in its path.
• The eclipse will expand from Mexico’s Pacific Coast across North America , hitting 15 US states and pulling itself all the way to the coast of Newfoundland, Canada.
• New Yorkers will experience the solar eclipse just after 2 p.m. Monday.
• A huge explosion on the sun , known as a coronal mass ejection, is anticipated, according to experts. This happens when massive particles from the sun are hurled out into space, explains Ryan French of the National Solar Observatory in Boulder, Colorado.
• To avoid serious injury to the eyes , it is necessary to view the event through proper eyewear like eclipse glasses , or a handheld solar viewer, during the partial eclipse phase before and after totality.
• The next total solar eclipse will take place on Aug. 12, 2026, and totality will be visible to those in Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small slice of Portugal. 

That being said, the eclipse can be detrimental to human health in one notable way: By destroying our eyes.

Stargazers who look on the blackout sans the proper eyewear risk damaging their retinal cells, potentially resulting in impaired vision or even permanent blindness.

These complications are concerning given that the market has been infiltrated by fake solar eclipse glasses from China.

The suspect frames are ripoffs of legitimate lenses made by the Chinese company County Qiwei Craft Co., and can be quickly ID’d as fakes because they are no darker than normal sunglasses.

Real solar glasses should be “at least 1,000 times darker than even the darkest regular sunglasses,” advised Rick Fienberg, Project Manager of the AAS Solar Eclipse Task Force.

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6 Ways to Cope With Feeling Sad When You’re Sick

It started with a sniffle. Now you’re in the throes of a cold or the flu and, adding insult to injury, you feel inexplicably sad.  

How do you know if it’s regular sickness blues or something more serious, and what can you do to cope? 

Why does being sick make you sad? 

“Mood is often affected when we’re feeling sick,” says Dr. Robin Tong , a primary care doctor who sees patients at UW Medicine Primary Care at Kent-Des Moines .

You may feel sad when you’re sick because what is happening to your body can also negatively affect your mood. In fact, Tong says several of the symptoms of a cold can mimic symptoms of depression, so it makes sense that experiencing these can cause you to feel down. 

“During the time of illness, many of us will experience symptoms of acute viral illness that overlap with depression, such as fatigue, malaise, mental fog, problems thinking, loss of appetite and sleep changes,” he explains. 

Unlike depression, sickness blues fade in a couple days when you start to recover from your cold. But that doesn’t mean they’re any fun in the meantime. So, what can you do to cope?  

Ways to improve your mood when you’re sick 

Feeling sad when you’re sick is difficult because you may not have the energy to do your usual coping strategies to lift your spirits. If you’re feeling down or stuck, Tong recommends: 

• Gentle movement. If you’re feeling up to it, light exercise like yoga, stretching or tai chi can help circulate your blood and lymph tissue, as well as potentially release endorphins that can improve mood. If you’re not well enough for movement, laying on your back with your legs up against the wall is a low-effort way to move lymph tissue and promote drainage and movement of fluid in your body. 
• Deep breathing. This breathing technique improves mental health by activating your parasympathetic nervous system, which calms your body down and makes you feel more relaxed. 
• Sun exposure. Sunlight can trigger your brain to release serotonin, a hormone that acts as a natural antidepressant. Going on a walk, sitting by a window or using a light-therapy lamp can give you a boost.  
• Journaling. The benefits here are twofold: writing what you’re grateful for or noting what you’re feeling is a way to practice mindfulness, plus having a log of your thoughts and feelings helps you recount any symptoms with your doctor. 
• Sensory activities. Aroma or music therapy can stimulate different parts of your brain and pull you away from depressive thought patterns when you’re sick. Try lighting a favorite candle, listening to music or soaking in a scented bath (or all three at once).  
• Socializing (safely). Connecting with loved ones provides crucial social support. If you can’t see others in person due to your illness, talking on the phone or texting can help you maintain that sense of connection. 

What if you still feel sad after recovering from being sick? 

While feelings of sadness typically ease as you begin to recover, in some cases they can persist in what’s called post-viral syndrome. 

Post-viral syndrome, including post-viral depression, is a constellation of health problems that continue after you’ve recovered from a virus, such as the flu or common cold. Symptoms can range from headaches and pain to trouble concentrating and fatigue, as well as ongoing mental health concerns like depression.  

Researchers are still discovering what causes post-viral syndrome and post-viral depression, but Tong notes current research indicates that these symptoms are caused by an overactive immune system response that results in inflammation. 

“Although our immune response is vital in helping our bodies recognize and fight microbes such as viruses, its exaggerated response and, in many cases, its failure to completely clear the inflammatory response may be implicated in causing symptoms seen in post-viral syndrome and post-viral depression,” he says.  

In simplified terms, doctors hypothesize what is happening in your body goes something like this: After infection your immune system continues to produce inflammatory molecules called cytokines. Cytokines help fight infection, but they also cause fever, fatigue and general discomfort. If they persist, you can still feel ill even after your infection has cleared. 

While you likely won’t experience post-viral syndrome after a cold, it can happen, and it’s important to talk to your doctor if you’re experiencing a low mood for two weeks or longer after you’ve recovered. 

“I would encourage people to talk to their primary care doctor — at any point along the way — whether it has been two to three weeks out, or even months later. We have advice, medicines and resources including referrals available for people in need,” Tong says.  

The bottom line  

Feeling sad when you’re sick is a normal response to feeling unwell, so try to be gentle with yourself and practice some self-care when you’re under the weather. As you recover from your cold, you should start to feel better and more like yourself: physically, emotionally and mentally.  

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The vagus nerve plays an important role in your body’s calming response. 

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse myths and rumors bubble up, from radiation to food poisoning.

Bill Chappell

People visit a NASA information booth to grab solar eclipse glasses in Russellville, Arkansas. The space agency has debunked a number of myths about the total solar eclipse — including ideas about food going bad, or unborn babies being harmed. Mario Tama/Getty Images hide caption

People visit a NASA information booth to grab solar eclipse glasses in Russellville, Arkansas. The space agency has debunked a number of myths about the total solar eclipse — including ideas about food going bad, or unborn babies being harmed.

Will a solar eclipse harm a pregnant woman's baby if she looks at it? Does an eclipse emit special radiation that can instantly blind you?

Those are some of the ideas people have been asking about — and that experts have been pooh-poohing — as people in North America anticipated seeing a total eclipse, from Mazatlán to Montreal.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Monday's total solar eclipse begins over Mexico's Pacific Coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, moving east through Texas and up to Maine, finally leaving the continent on Newfoundland's Atlantic coast.

Solar eclipses have long triggered fanciful explanations and warnings, from religious mythology to modern-day superstition. In recent days, for instance, a message circulated online warning people to turn off their cellphones and other devices before midnight ahead of the eclipse, warning of powerful radiation and cosmic rays.

In reality, a solar eclipse brings a temporary sharp drop in solar radiation — an event that ham radio operators have been eagerly anticipating for months, with competitions and experiments looking to fill the Earth's suddenly radiation-free ionosphere with radio signals.

Persistent but unfounded beliefs even prompted NASA to devote a special page to debunking misconceptions about a solar eclipse.

Total eclipses don't produce rays that cause blindness, NASA says

During totality, electromagnetic radiation from the sun's corona will not harm you. In fact, the only time it's safe to look at the sun without eye protection, as the sun's brightness is fully obscured by the moon and its corona is visible.

But outside of totality, your eyes can be harmed during an eclipse. If the sun is only partially obscured, looking at it will damage your retina. You can look if you have special solar glasses, but don't count on those to protect you if you want to use a telescope or camera lens that doesn't have a solar filter.

As NASA says , "the concentrated solar rays will burn through the filter and cause serious eye injury."

Another thing to remember: Take breaks if you're using a special filter to look at the sun before or after totality. As the space agency says , the sun's infrared radiation can make you uncomfortable, "as it literally warms the eye."

You should look away from the sun periodically, or use an indirect viewer like a pinhole projector to track the eclipse.​

More things NASA says are NOT true about a total solar eclipse

Myth: if you are pregnant you should not watch an eclipse because it can harm your baby..

Another notion that seems to be rooted in concern about radiation. To put people's mind at ease, NASA employs a sort of "you're already soaking in it" example, citing the neutrino particles produced by the sun's nuclear fusion:

"Every second, your body is pelted by trillions of these neutrinos no matter if the sun is above or below the horizon. The only consequence is that every few minutes a few atoms in your body are transmuted into a different isotope by absorbing a neutrino. This is an entirely harmless effect and would not harm you, or if you are pregnant, the developing fetus."

MYTH: Eclipses will poison any food that is prepared during the event.

NASA gives a hypothetical: What if some bad potato salad makes people sick during an eclipse? Food poisoning is very common — and it shouldn't be blamed on a rare celestial event, the agency notes.

"The basic idea is that total solar eclipses are terrifying and their ghostly green coronae look frightening, so it is natural to want to make up fearful stories about them and look for coincidences among events around you."

Other myths have to do with omens and major events

Here are four that NASA singles out for debunking:

MYTH: Eclipses are harbingers of something very bad about to happen.

Myth: solar eclipses foretell major life changes and events about to happen., myth: solar eclipses are a sign of an exceptional celestial event taking place in time and space., myth: solar eclipses six months after your birthday, or on your birthday, are a sign of impending bad health..

NASA ascribes many of these ideas to astrological forecasts being propped up by confirmation bias.

As the agency says, "We tend to remember all the occasions when two things happened together, but forget all of the other times when they did not."

Other myths — such as the idea that the moon turns black during an eclipse, or that the Earth's two poles don't see eclipses — are simply false, the agency says.

Eclipses have deep spiritual meanings

Ideas about an eclipse's potentially powerful effects aren't new. In fact, solar eclipses do also cause some unusual things to happen .

Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday

People in totality can expect to feel a sudden drop in temperature, for instance. Stars and planets become visible in the middle of the day, and humans can experience a range of odd visual effects — from the sharpness of shadows to the movement of "shadow bands" and a change in how we perceive color.

Then there's the eerie effect of the eclipse moving from west to east, adding to the perception that time isn't moving in its normal path.

Many cultures and religions link eclipses to energy, seeing them as events of renewal and promise — or in some cases, of vital energy being drained away.

For the Ojibwe and other Indigenous peoples in the Great Lakes region, a story about a solar eclipse centers on a boy and his sister who trap the sun after it burns him.

In many folktales, magical animals try to eat the sun or the moon. In Hindu mythology, a serpent god, Rahu Ketu, wanted to eat the sun — but then his head was cut off. That created two new entities, Rahu and Ketu, according to the Folklife Today blog from the Library of Congress.

"These are the deities of eclipses and comets. Rahu is fixated on eating the sun and the moon, and will try to catch them and gobble them up," the blog notes. "Fortunately he only succeeds once in a while. Since his head was cut off, the sun or moon just falls out the hole where his neck used to be. This is an eclipse."

As Folklife Today notes, in many cultures, humans take up the duty of ending an eclipse, often by making noise and beating on drums or gongs to dispel the spirit that's attempting to take the sun.

I looked at the eclipse and now my eyes hurt. What are the symptoms of eclipse blindness?

Eclipse enthusiasts flocked to Austin and other cities Monday to see the total solar eclipse and, hopefully, brought the proper eye protection with them.

Looking at the sun during an eclipse without safe viewing glasses can cause permanent eye damage, called eclipse blindness. If after witnessing Monday's phenomenon you experience blurry or distorted vision , you may have suffered eye damage.

Here's what to know about eclipse blindness and what symptoms to look for.

Looking at the sun during an eclipse without protection can permanently damage your eyes

Even a short glance at the sun without proper protection can cause temporary or permanent damage to your eyes. Sunglasses aren't enough, you need ISO-certified solar eclipse glasses , which block about 1,000 times more sunlight.

How do I know if I damaged my eyes during the April eclipse? What are the symptoms of eclipse blindness?

The retinas of your eyes have no nerve endings so even if they are damaged, you may not feel any pain. But according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology , if you experience any of these symptoms a few hours or even days after the eclipse, you should go see your ophthalmologist.

• Blurry vision
• Headache and/or eye pain
• Vision loss or a black spot at the center of a patient’s sight in one or both eyes
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Distorted vision (a straight line may look bent or curvy)
• Changes in the way you see color, known as "dyschromatopsia"

How long can I look at the sun if I'm using eclipse glasses?

According to the American Astronomical Society (AAS), while some glasses and viewers include warnings about looking through them at the sun for more than 3 minutes at a time, as long as your glasses are compliant with the ISO 12312-2 safety standard and are undamaged, "you may look at the uneclipsed or partially eclipsed Sun through them for as long as you wish."

What does looking at the sun do to your eyes?

Ever started a fire by using a magnifying glass to focus sunlight onto a point?

The lens of your eye does essentially the same thing when it focuses the light you see onto the retinas at the back of your eye, the  American Academy of Ophthalmology  explained. The retina is the light-detecting part of your eye that transmits those signals to the brain. Direct, intense light can burn a hole in them or destroy retinal cells almost immediately.

Normally it hurts to look at the sun and humans naturally squint or look away. Even a few seconds can be too much. But during an eclipse, the visible sunlight is reduced and it becomes possible to look directly at it without discomfort for longer periods of time. You may not even know you've damaged your eyes until the next day.

The result is solar retinopathy or retinal burns. It can happen from looking at the sun or at too-bright reflections of sunlight off snow or water. The most common cause of solar retinopathy is viewing a solar eclipse, also called eclipse blindness.

It's rare, but it can be permanent. The  2017 eclipse , which passed from Oregon to South Carolina, is thought to have caused about 100 cases, according to the  American Astronomical Society , out of the estimated 150 million people who witnessed it. But since solar retinopathy doesn't cause complete blindness, many people with minor cases may have never reported it or even known they had it.

How long will damage from looking at an eclipse last?

Researchers have found that some patients "may see symptoms ease over time," according to David Hutton for Ophthalmology Times. The cones in the retina are resilient and resist damage, experts say.

In a 1976 study, some patients saw their symptoms clear over time and researchers found that some cases saw an "excellent recovery" in the first three months.

However, others have suffered permanent damage resulting in impaired vision in the form of a small blind spot in one or both eyes and distortion.

Is damage from looking at a solar eclipse treatable?

No. There is no treatment.

You should have an ophthalmologist scan your eyes to see how much damage has been done and they can monitor them over the next few months to chart any recovery, but the only thing you can do is wait and hope for it to go away.

And avoid looking at the sun.

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If your eyes hurt after watching the solar eclipse, here's what you need to know

Looking at the eclipse without certified protective glasses can cause serious eye damage.

Symptoms of solar retinopathy include blurry vision, dark spots, or a loss of central vision.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms after staring at the eclipse, call an eye doctor.

It's not safe to look at a solar eclipse without wearing certified protective glasses. If you did — or even if you did put on the right eyewear — you might be wondering whether your vision is OK.

Looking at the sun without adequate protection allows sunlight, including ultraviolet and near-infrared radiation, to penetrate the retina. That can damage cells and cause burns , leading to a condition eye doctors refer to as photic or solar retinopathy .

Some people might start to notice vision changes within a few hours, though it's most likely they would become apparent by the next day, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology .

Symptoms of solar retinopathy include dark spots, blurriness, difficulty telling colors apart, and loss of vision in the center of the eye, according to the National Eye Institute .

These changes can be temporary or permanent.

Sunglasses don't adequately protect your eyes during an eclipse

Some people experience strange sensations with their eyes immediately after viewing the eclipse even when they wear protective glasses. If your glasses were certified and you wore them properly, the discomfort may be temporary.

Sometimes after looking through a filter, it can take the eyes' photoreceptors awhile to adjust, which might cause an uncomfortable feeling, NPR said .

People who watched the eclipse for even a brief period without protection , however, are susceptible to damage. UV radiation can also cause photokeratitis or "sunburned eyes." Usually temporary, the condition causes pain and redness, and eyes may feel gritty or twitchy.

Sunglasses don't provide adequate protection during an eclipse, David Hinkle, an ophthalmologist at Tulane University's school of medicine, said .

Unlike sunglasses, eclipse glasses are so dark that you shouldn't be able to see through them, he said in a statement. "They're designed to filter out 99% or more of the light," he said. "Anything that lets enough light in so that you can see through or walk around in would not be safe."

If you are experiencing vision changes or eye pain, even if you wore proper eye protection, call an eye doctor to schedule an appointment.

Solar retinopathy may be a permanent condition

Many cases resolve themselves over time, within a day or even over a couple of weeks, a 2021 study published in the European Journal of Ophthalmology found. But if vision hasn't come back within six months, it's not likely to. Unfortunately, there's no treatment for solar retinopathy.

A doctor can examine your eye and see changes to the retina, which can take on the appearance of the crescent-shaped sun responsible for the damage.

"I always, always say if you notice something strange about your vision, see the eye doctor," Adriane Santa Croce, an ophthalmic sonographer at Scheie Eye Institute in Philadelphia, told Business Insider in 2017.

She added that "the concerns about vision following the eclipse may uncover unrelated eye problems that people may not have addressed otherwise," including changes in vision related to diabetes, cataracts, macular degeneration, or glaucoma.

Read the original article on Business Insider

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Are You Feeling Sick After Drinking Coffee? Here's Why (and How to Fix It)

Do you feel sick after drinking coffee? Here’s why, and how to fix it!

Caffeine is a pretty powerful drug. It can help with focus, energy, performance—even sleep quality. But there are some downsides to caffeine that most people don't consider until they're feeling them firsthand: nausea and headaches are common side effects of the drug.

But what if I told you that these symptoms could be easily fixed ? Read on for tips to stop feeling sick after coffee.

Why does coffee make some people feel sick?

Why do i feel sick after drinking coffee.

Different reasons why coffee might make someone feel sick:

1. Adding milk and sweetener to coffee can irritate the stomach and make you feel sick.

2. Coffee can upset the gut's microbiome, causing further distress.

3. Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can make people feel sick.

4. Skipping breakfast can make coffee drinkers feel worse.

5. Eating food before coffee prevents you from feeling sick.

6. Coffee has less overall acid, so you can avoid acid reflux and heartburn.

7. Coffee can make people feel sick because it contains caffeine.

8. Coffee can also make people feel sick because of the coffee grounds and other particles that are in coffee

How much coffee can I drink before I feel sick?

The recommended amount of caffeine for a healthy adult is four cups of coffee. However, too much coffee can make you feel sick. Too much coffee can lead to nausea, diarrhea, and other side effects. If you are drinking more than a cup of coffee per day and are not feeling well, it is best to cut back before completely eliminating coffee from your diet.

Coffee is fine for most people, but it is important to stay within the limits. If you've gone overboard with your coffee, do these things to counteract the effects: drink water, eat food, and take breaks.

What are the symptoms of coffee sickness?

Coffee can cause side effects such as headaches and nausea. The side effects can be easily remedied by eating food beforehand.

What are the causes of coffee sickness?

Coffee can cause nausea because it refluxes and irritates the stomach. This is because coffee is acidic, and when it's consumed, it can cause the stomach to produce more acid.

Coffee can also cause dehydration, which can lead to nausea. Caffeine can also cause nausea, as it's a stimulant. Drinking half a cup of coffee won't make you sick, as long as you drink enough water to balance out the caffeine.

If you're sensitive to coffee or have a sensitive stomach, cold brew is a good option for you, as it's less likely to cause nausea.

What are the best ways to prevent coffee sickness?

There are a few things you can do to prevent coffee sickness. First, drink plenty of fluids. This will help keep your body hydrated and prevent the coffee from dehydrating you. Second, avoid drinking caffeinated beverages before bed.

Caffeine can interfere with sleep and make you feel nauseous the next day. Finally, try not to drink more than two cups of coffee a day, or switch to decaf after 2pm. Too much caffeine can cause nausea and other stomach issues.

What are the risks of coffee sickness?

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can cause a number of problems including nausea, cramping, and acid reflux. This is because coffee is high in acid and can thin the stomach lining, leading to irritations. It is important to drink coffee with food to avoid these issues.

Dark roasts and cold brews tend to be lower in acidity and may be easier on the stomach. Additionally, avoiding cream and sugar can also help.

How do I know if I have coffee sickness?

There are a few reasons why coffee may make some people feel sick. One is that they are hypersensitive to caffeine and may have had too much coffee. Another is that they may be sensitive to acidic foods and drinks and have not eaten before or after drinking coffee. Finally, they may be dehydrated and have a lactose intolerance. Eliminating caffeine from your diet or using low-caffeine coffee may help ease the symptoms of coffee sickness.

What should I do if I feel sick after drinking coffee?

If coffee makes you feel sick, there are a few things you can do to try and alleviate the symptoms. 

Drink plenty of water to keep hydrated - room temperature water is better here, instead of cold icy water. It's much easier on the stomach.

You can also try eating food before drinking coffee. There is less overall acid from coffee when eaten this way, which can avoid problems such as acid reflux and heartburn.

How can you avoid feeling sick after drinking coffee?

Consider switching to decaf.

If you're feeling sick after drinking coffee, it's probably because you're sensitive to the caffeine. Caffeine can cause stomach upset, heartburn, and anxiety. It can also disrupt your sleep cycle. If you're having trouble avoiding feeling sick after drinking coffee, try switching to decaf.

Decaf coffee has much less caffeine than regular coffee, so it's less likely to cause stomach upset or disrupt your sleep.

You can also try eating a banana before or immediately after drinking coffee. Bananas are a good source of dietary potassium, which can help reduce the effects of caffeine on your body.

Switch the Roast

Another option is to try darker roasts of coffee. Darker roasts tend to be less acidic than lighter roasts and may be easier on your stomach. Contrary to what it sounds like, lighter roasts actually have more caffeine. It's lighter because the roaster roasted it less - which means more of the caffeine sticks around. Darker roasts have been roasted longer, and loses its caffeine through the roasting process.

Switch how to take it

If you currently drink it with cream and it's making you nauseous, try drinking it black. However, if you're already drinking black and that makes you nauseous or feeling sick, adding milk or cream to your coffee can help make it more tolerable.

You can also try cutting the coffee with some unsweetened milk substitute, a scoop of collagen peptides and a natural sweetener instead.

Drink coffee with a meal

When you drink coffee with food, it can help to avoid feeling sick. This is because coffee on an empty stomach can cause stomach problems. Eating something before drinking coffee can improve nausea. Something as small as a pastry or crackers can help to keep the stomach strong. So, if you're feeling nauseous, try drinking coffee with a meal.

Drink smaller amounts of caffeine throughout the day

Caffeine is a stimulant and can have side effects if you drink too much. To avoid feeling sick, drink small amounts of coffee throughout the day instead of large amounts all at once. Be sure to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and take breaks to walk around and practice deep breathing. If symptoms persist, go to the emergency room.

Limit the number of cups of coffee you have per day

Coffee is generally beneficial in small doses, but too much caffeine can lead to nausea and other unpleasant symptoms. It's important to stay within the limits of how much caffeine you consume each day. The limit for people who are feeling sick is generally agreed to be 400mg. If you've gone over your limit, drink lots of water to counteract the caffeine. Avoid drinking coffee if you are feeling sick or have a low tolerance for caffeine.

Drink caffeine-free beverages

Caffeine can have some unpleasant side effects if you drink too much of it, including headaches, anxiety, and nausea. If you're worried about feeling sick after drinking coffee, there are some things you can do to help avoid it. First, try to cut down on your caffeine intake overall.

Second, drink plenty of water and replace electrolytes if you start to feel sick. And finally, walk around a bit to help avoid feeling lightheaded. If you do start to feel like you're going to have a heart attack, stop drinking coffee immediately and deep breath until the symptoms pass. In most cases, people recover without any permanent damage.

Stay hydrated

When you drink coffee on an empty stomach, it can make you sick. So, it's important to drink water first. To avoid getting sick, you should drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. Coffee won't replace the need for electrolytes and water. So, if you want to prevent dehydration, you should drink something to restore electrolyte balance. You can drink smoothies, milkshakes, juice, or Gatorade to prevent dehydration.

Don't drink coffee on an empty stomach

The 8th step to avoid feeling sick after drinking coffee is to not drink it on an empty stomach. It's best to drink coffee with breakfast foods. If you're feeling sick after drinking coffee, try eating something small to avoid feeling sicker. Drinking coffee on an empty stomach may cause nausea in some people, so eat a well-balanced breakfast before drinking coffee. Eating breakfast before drinking coffee will help to avoid feeling sick after drinking coffee.

What are some alternative beverages to coffee?

1. Tea has lower levels of caffeine and can be consumed for a more energizing drink.

2. If you want to avoid any side effects, eliminating coffee from your diet is the best way to go.

3. Drinking water when you wake up will help with both energy and hydration levels before starting your day with coffee.

4. If you're sensitive to high acidity, drink tea on an empty stomach instead.

5. Replacement is never a good idea—even when you're in a rush.

6. Sweeteners without calories are artificial, meaning they may contain harmful ingredients.

7 Includes Dipotassium phosphate, an ingredient that can lead to nausea and diarrhea.

8. If you can't drink it black, experiment with alternatives like a stevia leaf extract, cinnamon, or cocoa powder

• Swap out your coffee for things like green or white tea: Tea has lower levels of caffeine and can be consumed for a more energizing drink.
• Eliminate coffee from your diet entirely: If you want to avoid any side effects, eliminating coffee from your diet is the best way to go.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking water when you wake up will help with both energy and hydration levels before starting your day with coffee
• Drink tea on an empty stomach: If you're sensitive to high acidity, drink tea on an empty stomach instead.
• Replace breakfast with coffee and you might feel worse: drinking coffee replacement is never a good idea—even when you're in a rush.
• Artificial sweeteners are harmful: Sweeteners without calories are artificial, meaning they may contain harmful ingredients.
• Avoid fake sweeteners and creamers: Includes Dipotassium phosphate, an ingredient that can lead to nausea and diarrhea.
• Drink black coffee: If you can't drink it black, experiment with alternatives like a stevia leaf extract, cinnamon, or cocoa.
• Experiment with different types of tea: Sweeteners often stir up gut bacteria, try drinking your coffee without any of the fake sh*t.
• Calcium offsetting acidity in milk or creamer if needed: All-natural milk or creamer for those who prefer smoother taste or don't tolerate sugar well
• You can enjoy the flavor of your coffee without added ingredients: If you're looking to avoid adding any additional flavors to your coffee, black coffee is a good option.
• You will taste the roast of the coffee: If you drink black coffee, you will experience the flavor notes that are present in roasted coffees.

2. Herbal tea

There are many benefits to swapping out coffee for herbal tea. Herbal teas have lower levels of caffeine, so you can still get an energy boost without all the jitters. They also come in a variety of flavors, so you can find one that suits your taste. Plus, coffee filters are biodegradable, so you can help the environment by using a compostable filter in your Keurig machine.

• You can consume lower levels of caffeine: You can swap out your coffee for things like green or white tea.
• Herbal teas will energize you without all the caffeine: You can eliminate coffee from your diet entirely.
• Coffee filters are biodegradable: Regular coffee in Keurig machines using a compostable filter

3. Decaf coffee

Decaf coffee is coffee that has had most of the caffeine removed. Decaf coffee can be made using different methods, but some common methods include using water that has been boiled and then cooled, or using water that has been chilled and then boiled. Most decaf coffee is made with some type of flavoring (usually vanilla or hazelnut). Decaf coffee is usually less expensive than regular coffee, and it may have a different flavor than regular coffee.

4. Low-acid coffee

Low acid coffee is coffee that has been roasted longer, resulting in less acidity. Decaf coffee is also low in acidity because the process of decaffeination removes some of the acids. Espresso and cold brew are other low acid options. Some people find that low acid coffee causes nausea because of the lack of acidity. However, there are low-acid coffee options for people who don't want to drink acidic coffee.

5. Caffeine-free soda

There are several pros to drinking coffee, including the fact that it can help you stay hydrated, understand your digestive system, and avoid discomfort caused by acids. Additionally, coffee on an empty stomach can lead to nausea, heartburn and acid reflux. However, if you're not a fan of fake sugar in your coffee, you can try drinking it black. Finally, if the taste of coffee is too strong for you, go for an all-natural milk or creamer instead.

• Stay hydrated: Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up to help you feel more energized and will also hydrate you.
• Understand your digestive system: The way your digestive system interacts with caffeine varies from person-to-person, so be aware of this before consuming coffee.
• Avoid discomfort caused by acids in coffee: Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can lead to queasiness.
• Coffee on an empty stomach may cause nausea, heartburn and acid reflux.
• Replacing breakfast with coffee is never a good idea—even when you're in a rush.
• Avoid artificial sweeteners: Sweeteners with zero calories are artificial and may contain harmful ingredients.
• Sweeteners with zero calories are artifical and may contain harmful ingredients
• You can drink coffee black: If you're not a fan of fake sugar in your coffee, try drinking it black.
• Avoid artificial creamers: Artificial creamers tend to have harmful ingredients, so try avoiding them if you can.
• Dipotassium phosphate: An ingredient used to break down coffee acidity can lead to nausea and diarrhea.
• All-natural milk or creamer: If the taste of coffee is too strong for you, go for an all-natural milk or creamer instead.
• You can have a caffeine-free soda: If you're feeling brave, challenge yourself to forego the additional ingredients altogether!
• You may taste the flavor notes from the roast: The more you drink black coffee, the more you will begin to taste the flavor notes from the roast itself.

Proper hydration is essential for your health and drinking at least a glass of water first thing in the morning is advisable. Don't use coffee as a substitute for sparkling clean water, but if you feel like you've drunk too much coffee, drink a few glasses of water. Drinking enough water can speed up how quickly caffeine leaves your system.

• Proper hydration is essential for your health: When you're not properly hydrated, you may feel nauseated or drained.
• Drink at least a glass of water first thing in the morning: It's advisable to drink eight glasses of water a day.
• Don't use coffee as a substitute for sparkling clean water: Drinking lots and lots of water will help you feel better as you wait for the caffeine to leave your body.
• Drinking enough water can speed up how quickly caffeine leaves your system: If you feel like you've drunk too much coffee, drink a few glasses of water

There are several different lactose-free coffee options available for those who are lactose intolerant. Plant-based milk is a great alternative to cow's milk, and there are many dairy-free substitutes that can be used for coffee condiments. This can help you get rid of coffee nausea if you have lactose intolerance.

• There are several different lactose-free coffee options: Prepare or order your coffee with a plant-based milk.
• Lactose intolerance is common as you get older: You may have suffered from this digestive issue in the past without knowing it, and now you may be experiencing symptoms such as diarrhoea, bloating, and an overall feeling of sickness when drinking regular cow's milk coffee.
• You can check for lactase deficiency: If you're found to have lactase deficiency, then adding milk to your cup of Joe will not cause problems for you.
• There are many dairy milk substitutes that you can use for your coffee drinks: There are vegan whipped cream topping and lattes.
• Substituting coffee condiments with non-dairy alternatives may help you get rid of coffee nausea: This can be helpful if you have lactose intolerance.

1. Coffee can make you feel sick if you're not properly hydrated. To avoid this, drink a glass of water first thing in the morning to help your body flush out toxins and hydrate your cells.

2. It is advisable to drink eight glasses of water per day. This will help keep you properly hydrated and prevent coffee from making you feel sick.

• Coffee can make you feel sick: If you're not properly hydrated, coffee can make you feel sick.
• Drink water first thing in the morning: When you wake up, drink a glass of water to help your body flush out toxins and hydrate your cells.
• Drink eight glasses of water a day: It is advisable to drink eight glasses of water per day.

What are the symptoms of feeling sick after drinking coffee?

If you're feeling sick after drinking coffee, it could be due to a few different reasons. Coffee can upset your gut's microbiome, leading to nausea. If you're particularly sensitive to caffeine, coffee can also make you feel nauseous. Additionally, if you haven't eaten or are dehydrated, coffee can also cause nausea. Finally, if the coffee is too sweet, it can also make you sick.

What are the causes of feeling sick after drinking coffee?

The main reasons people feel sick after drinking coffee are because they either drink it on an empty stomach, or the coffee is too acidic. Caffeine can also be a contributing factor for some people. Adding milk and sweetener to coffee can also make people feel nauseous. To avoid feeling sick after drinking coffee, it's best to eat something first and to choose a coffee that is less acidic.

What are the differences between regular coffee and decaf coffee?

1. Decaf coffee is a great choice for people who are looking for a coffee with less caffeine.

2. Decaf coffee might also have other benefits, such as tasting better than regular coffee.

3. Iced coffee is easy to make with decaf coffee.

4. Decaf coffee is usually more affordable than regular coffee.

• It's not just for people who are caffeine-free: If you're looking for a decaffeinated coffee that has less caffeine than regular coffee, then this is the option for you.
• It might have other benefits too: Some people find that decaf coffee has different flavors and tastes better than regular coffee.
• You can make iced coffee: This is one of my favorite blog posts because I love how easy it is to make iced coffee with just a few simple steps!
• It's affordable: Decaf coffee is usually more affordable than regular coffee, making it a great choice if you're on a budget.

What are the differences between cold brew coffee and regular coffee?

• There are differences between cold brew coffee and regular coffee, most notably that cold brew is less acidic.
• If you can't bear to give up your cup of joe, try low-acid decaf coffee.
• Cold brew coffee is made by brewing coffee without using any heat, which results in a stronger flavor and more caffeine.
• Regular coffee is made by boiling water and adding it to ground coffee, which gives it a smooth flavor.

What are the differences between iced coffee and regular coffee?

• There are differences in acidity between iced coffee and regular coffee.
• Darker roasts are easier to digest than lighter roasts, due to higher levels of NMP.
• Iced coffee is brewed with cold water and does not contain as many acids as regular coffee.
• Iced coffee is often served over ice, which helps to keep it cold.
• Iced coffee is typically cheaper than regular coffee.

What are the differences between flavored coffee and regular coffee?

• Many people enjoy drinking their coffee with cream, but this is not recommended because of the ingredients in artificial creamers.
• If you cannot go without flavored coffee in your morning routine, you can still enjoy a cup of coffee without any added flavors.
• Flavored coffee typically contains additives such as flavors, sweeteners, and caffeine that regular coffee does not.
• Drinking flavored coffee can upset your stomach if you are not used to it.
• If you want to drink flavored coffee without having to worry about it affecting your stomach, try using natural milk instead of flavored creamers.

What are the differences between organic coffee and regular coffee?

• For example, organic coffee is grown without pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
• Coffee filters can be biodegradable, but it's up to you if you want to use them or not.
• Drinking regular coffee at night may not be the best idea as it can contain more energy than necessary during the night, which could lead to trouble in the morning.
• How long do you percolate your coffee before drinking it? This varies depending on how you make your coffee, but typically about 20 minutes is enough time for a good extraction.
• Regular coffee is not necessarily "organic," but it may be labeled that way.
• There are a variety of differences between organic and regular coffee - for example, organic coffee is often grown without synthetic fertilizers or pesticides.
• For many people, the taste of organic coffee is simply better than regular coffee.

What are the differences between fair trade coffee and regular coffee?

• Fair trade coffee is more environmentally friendly than regular coffee.
• You should adjust your grind size over water rather than using water to adjust the grind size.
• There might not be a "reference" coffee grinder, but there are many different types of grinder that can suit different people's needs.
• Fair trade coffee is typically more expensive than regular coffee.
• Fair trade coffee is grown ethically, and benefits the farmer and their community.
• Fair trade coffee is roasted differently, to get a richer flavor.
• Fair trade coffee is more expensive than regular coffee, but it is also better because it is ethically and sustainably produced.
• The beans are roasted more slowly and properly to create a richer flavor.
• Fair trade standards require that the workers receive a living wage, decent working conditions, and the right to unionize.

What are the differences between gourmet coffee and regular coffee?

• There are many different acids found in coffee, and each cup has more than thirty different types of acids.
• Gourmet coffee is less acidic than regular coffee, which makes them easier to digest and less harsh on the stomach.
• Cold brew coffee is brewed with cold water, so many of these stomach-paining acids are not released.
• A regular coffee will have more caffeine than a gourmet coffee, which can make you feel unwell.
• Coffee can also cause anxiety and headaches, depending on how much caffeine it has.
• People with GERD often suffer from heartburn as a result of caffeine's connection to GERD.
• Gourmet coffee typically has a higher quality caffeine content and more flavor than regular coffee.
• People who are looking for a more flavorful coffee may prefer gourmet coffee.
• If you have GERD , small changes in your diet or lifestyle can provide relief and allow the body to heal itself. However, for more severe cases, you will most likely need to rely on antacids

What are the best ways to avoid feeling sick after drinking coffee?

There are a few things you can do to avoid feeling sick after drinking coffee. First, try drinking black coffee. Second, avoid adding extra milk and sugar to your coffee. Third, moderate your intake of coffee. And fourth, eat food before drinking coffee.

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