Written by: Alexis Dewey
Growing up as an Adventist, I have learned that people within the same denomination hold themselves to a wide array of ideals. Some adhere to certain dress codes, diets, ways of worship and more. Church members have differing opinions on what is “right” and “wrong.”
For example, some Adventists do not see an issue with eating out on Friday night or Sabbath after church, while others believe it to be wrong. Another example would be the discussion of whether women should be recognized and paid as top leaders in the church.
A big uproar in the Adventist community I have noticed in the last few years has been whether or not coffee consumption is appropriate. A large reason for this ambiguity is a few quotes from Adventist co-founder Ellen G. White. For example, she wrote, “Tea, coffee, tobacco, and alcohol we must present as sinful indulgences.” (Letter and Manuscripts – Vol. 3, Manuscript 5, 1881). This is one of many quotes in which White warns against using coffee and other stimulants.
This debate has left several Adventists confused and battling with their inner conscience, as coffee consumption has become more popular over time. Americans drank coffee in the 19th century; however, it became more widely consumed in the 1960s, according to PBS. Then, Starbucks opened in 1971, which may have had an impact. Coffee has become a way of everyday life for the average American, and certainly for the average college student.
Coffee consumption has both health benefits and drawbacks. Some concerns include resulting addiction, change in heart rate and mood swings. The health benefits include enhanced mood, brain health, endurance and energy, among others, according to Healthline.
White specifically names coffee as being unhealthy and harmful to your body. Coffee itself, however, is not necessarily bad for you, according to Healthline. “It’s high in antioxidants and linked to a reduced risk of many diseases. However, it also contains caffeine, a stimulant that can cause problems in some people and disrupt sleep.”
This statement argues that the coffee plant is not inherently good or bad, but rather, has pros and cons.
Coffee beans are natural and come straight from a plant. However, it is the caffeine that worries health-conscious individuals, such as White. The negative effects of coffee consumption seem to equal an average energy drink. The common denominator is caffeine, which is also an ingredient in chocolate, black tea and green tea, some brands of soda, chewing gum and granola bars.
To say that coffee is bad because it is addictive is not a strong argument. Other things that are considered healthy can become harmful and addictive if done too often. For example, if you spend too much time, money or energy on one thing or activity, it can become harmful not only to your health, but also your spirituality. Using your phone, watching TV, buying new things and even working out can become addictive.
The argument about whether or not you should drink coffee is valid, to some extent. Watching out for your health is always something to think about and discuss. White is not the only one who preached the health message; it is in the Bible, as well.
Personally, I do not think coffee is something that we should be too harsh on ourselves about. If we get caught up in all the weeds of life, how do we decide to untangle ourselves? There are a lot of benefits to drinking coffee; however, it carries some harmful things, as well. Being “healthy” is generic in some cases, but it can also vary depending on the person. I encourage people to conduct their own research and talk to God about it.
