There was a time long ago when drinking coffee was considered to be a bit taboo and many people had superstitious beliefs about this beverage and it’s effects on the body. Today, there is no argument; coffee is a great beverage that tastes great and provides certain benefits.
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Millions of people drink this social beverage on a regular basis but does it have any health benefits? Sure, it does but this also depends on how much you drink. Many studies have looked at the effects of coffee and the overwhelming majority report that coffee (yes even decaffeinated) in moderate amounts has several health benefits, that include the following:
10 Benefits of drinking coffee
1. Benefits of drinking coffee: Combat Diabetes
You are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes. Accumulating evidence shows that coffee does not increase your blood sugars (unless you add 6 teaspoons of sugar to every cup of coffee). Even diabetics who drink coffee will notice that it lowers the blood sugars. It is believed that coffee contains antioxidants and nutrients which scavenge free radicals and prevents damage to the tissues. In addition, most coffee products also contain minerals like magnesium and chromium which are needed by the hormone, insulin, for its actions.
2. Benefits of drinking coffee: Avert Alzheimer’s
Those who drink coffee at an earlier age are also less likely to develop Alzheimer’s and Parkinson disease. In order to see these benefits the coffee consumption should be started way before you reach age 60.
3. Benefits of drinking coffee: Better than alcohol
Unlike alcohol, coffee has been well studied and there is no evidence to suggest that it can cause liver damage or an increase in any type of cancer.
4. Benefits of drinking coffee: Better mood
Many people claim that when they drink coffee it uplifts their mood. Coffee is known to be a brain stimulant and can improve concentration, alertness and cognition. It is the caffeine in the coffee that is responsible for it stimulant benefits.
5. Benefits of drinking coffee: Energy booster
Coffee is a energy booster. People who feel tired will immediately feel alert and have more energy after drinking coffee. Coffee is known to prevent sleep and it is consumed by millions of people first thing in the morning to become and remain awake.
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6. Benefits of drinking coffee: Social
Evidence now shows that coffee is not only safe but this beverage also helps form strong social and inter-professional bonds.
7. Benefits of drinking coffee: Heart health
There are also reports that regular consumption of coffee can reduce the risk of strokes and problems with the heart.
8. Benefits of drinking coffee: Low calorie drink
Coffee does not cause weight gain. Unlike the cola beverages, a 6 ounce cup of coffee only contains 7-calories. However, if you add a dairy creamer you will add another 46 calories and a teaspoon of sugar will add 23 calories.
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9. Benefits of drinking coffee: Helps with weight loss
The caffeine in coffee also acts like a thermogenic agent, meaning that it will burn your fat. However, be realistic and if you really want to get rid of your weight, try exercise at the same time.
10. Benefits of drinking coffee: Safe when pregnant
If you are pregnant you can consume coffee. So far, no study has shown that coffee adversely affects the infant- the same cannot be said of alcohol. However, keep the amount of coffee you consume during pregnancy to 1-2 cups a day because the effects of large doses of caffeine remain unknown. Now please remember to speak to your doctor to obtain more appropriate medical guidance.
What are the negative side effects of Coffee?
Well coffee acts like a water pill. If you drink too much coffee you will need to go to the bathroom frequently. Further, too much coffee can also cause heart burn because the caffeine relaxes the sphincter at the bottom end of the swallowing tube. Thus, when you lie down or are asleep, acid can go back to your throat. Although coffee has many health benefits go easy with the cream and sugar. While coffee with thick cream and sugar tastes great, it can quickly add calories. Like everything in life, drink coffee in moderation.
It is important for all coffee drinkers to know that reliance on just coffee for its health benefits is not realistic nor practical. If you want to maintain good health, sure drink all the coffee you want but at the same time stop smoking, exercise regularly, limit the amount of alcohol intake, and talk to your doctor.
Be sure to also check out our comprehensive Coffee Guide.
