Alcohol has a real effect on B vitamins. Coffee, for most people, doesn't. Here's the difference.
Written by Vita Globe Editorial Team | Reviewed against NIH Office of Dietary Supplements guidance | Updated October 7, 2026
Quick Answer
Heavy, long-term drinking lowers several B vitamins. It impairs folate absorption and use, and people with alcohol dependence often have very low B6 and low biotin[1][2][3]. Moderate coffee drinking hasn't been shown to meaningfully deplete B vitamins. A B complex won't prevent or cure a hangover.
In this article
How does alcohol affect B vitamins?
- Folate: people with alcohol use disorder often have poor diets, and alcohol also reduces folate absorption, disrupts how it's used and increases how much is lost in urine[1].
- B6: blood levels tend to be very low in people with alcohol dependence[2].
- Biotin: chronic alcohol use blocks biotin absorption, and about 15% of people with chronic alcoholism have low biotin[3].
These effects are tied to heavy, long-term drinking, not an occasional glass of wine. A supplement doesn't undo the other harms of heavy drinking. If you're concerned about how much you drink, talk to your doctor.
Does coffee affect B vitamins?
There's little evidence that normal coffee intake lowers B vitamin levels in a meaningful way. Coffee is a mild diuretic, but water-soluble vitamins aren't flushed out in amounts that matter for most people. You can take a B complex with your morning coffee. For caffeine limits, see How Much Caffeine Is Too Much?
Do B vitamins help a hangover?
There's no good evidence that taking B vitamins before or after drinking prevents a hangover. Water, food, sleep and drinking less are what help.
Our option
Vita Globe Vitamin B Complex Gummies
Daily coverage of folate, B6, biotin and three more B vitamins. A supplement, not a hangover cure.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take B complex with coffee?
Yes. There's no known problem taking them together.
Which B vitamin is most affected by alcohol?
Thiamin (B1) is the best known, along with folate, B6 and biotin. Our formula doesn't contain thiamin, so heavy drinkers should talk to a doctor about the right supplement.
Does tea affect B vitamins?
Normal tea intake isn't known to meaningfully lower B vitamin levels.
Sources
- NIH ODS. Folate Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. ods.od.nih.gov
- NIH ODS. Vitamin B6 Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. ods.od.nih.gov
- NIH ODS. Biotin Fact Sheet for Health Professionals. ods.od.nih.gov
About the Vita Globe Editorial Team
The Vita Globe Editorial Team researches and writes our wellness content from peer-reviewed research and guidance from bodies such as the NIH and FDA. We cite sources inline and update articles when the evidence changes.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or managing a health condition.
