Based on the writings of Ellen G. White, coffee is described as a harmful and unnecessary stimulant. Her counsel consistently advises against its use due to its negative effects on the physical, mental, and spiritual well-being of an individual. Here are the key points from her writings on coffee consumption: ### Immediate Effects are Deceptive Ellen White explains that the initial feeling of energy from coffee is misleading. It's not true strength but a temporary nervous excitement. * **False Strength:** "The first effect is exhilarating. The nerves of the stomach are excited; these convey irritation to the brain, and this in turn is aroused to impart increased action to the heart and short-lived energy to the entire system. Fatigue is forgotten; the strength seems to be increased" (MH 326). * **Nervous Excitement:** "Because these stimulants produce such agreeable results, many conclude that they really need them; but there is always a reaction... what seems to be strength is only nervous excitement, and consequently must be an injury to the system" (CTBH 31.2). ### Negative After-Effects The temporary stimulation is always followed by a period of depression and exhaustion, which weakens the body over time. * **Exhaustion and Prostration:** "Coffee is a hurtful indulgence. It temporarily excites the mind to unwonted action, but the after-effect is exhaustion, prostration, paralysis of the mental, moral, and physical powers" (CTBH 34.4). * **Weakened Nerves:** "Those who resort to tea and coffee for stimulation to labor, will feel the evil effects of this course in trembling nerves and lack of self-control" (CTBH 35.1). * **Physical Appearance:** She noted that the effects can be visible: "Tea and coffee drinkers carry the marks upon their faces. The skin becomes sallow, and assumes a lifeless appearance. The glow of health is not seen upon the countenance" (2T 64.1). ### Comparison to Other Harmful Substances She places coffee in the same category as other addictive and harmful substances, warning that it can be a gateway to stronger stimulants. * **Addictive Nature:** "In some cases it is as difficult to break up the tea-and-coffee habit as it is for the inebriate to discontinue the use of liquor" (CTBH 34.5). * **A Stepping Stone:** "Intemperance commences at our tables... By the use of tea and coffee an appetite is formed for tobacco, and this encourages the appetite for liquors" (3T 563.3). ### Spiritual Consequences The physical and mental effects of coffee are seen as a hindrance to spiritual growth. * **Antagonistic to Spiritual Progress:** "All these nerve irritants are wearing away the life-forces, and the restlessness caused by shattered nerves, the impatience, the mental feebleness, become a warring element, antagonizing to spiritual progress" (CTBH 34.5). ### Final Counsel Her advice is direct and uncompromising: abstinence is the only safe path. * **Touch Not, Taste Not:** "In relation to tea, coffee, tobacco, and alcoholic drinks, the only safe course is to touch not, taste not, handle not" (MH 335.3).