If you love a good cup of coffee, but also worry about the health effects, you’re not alone. A growing number of people are trying to find ways to enjoy this delicious beverage without compromising their health or well-being.
The Unquestioned Benefits of Drinking Coffee
One of the best things about drinking coffee is that it contains a variety of antioxidant compounds that protect against a number of diseases and conditions, according to nutrition experts from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. In particular, coffee is a good source of polyphenols, which have been shown to reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer and other chronic diseases.
Despite the fact that these substances have been studied extensively, scientists are not sure exactly how they work to reduce inflammation or prevent disease. Some researchers believe that the antioxidants found in coffee may help regulate chronic inflammation within the body.
Coffee Consumption Lowers the Risk of Coronary Heart Disease, Stroke and Diabetes
The risk of these diseases is much lower for people who consume moderate amounts of coffee. Studies show that drinking 1 to 3 cups of coffee per day can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, stroke and type 2 diabetes by 7%.
In addition, coffee is also linked to a reduced risk of death from many common illnesses and diseases. In a 10-year study, people who drank four or more cups of coffee per day were less likely to die during the study than those who didn’t drink any coffee.
Caffeine is a stimulant that enhances energy levels and boosts mental function. It can improve memory, reaction times and mood by enhancing the release of adrenaline and dopamine.
There is a risk that high amounts of caffeine can cause heart palpitations, jitteriness and anxiety. If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop drinking coffee or limit your intake to no more than three or four cups a day.
Coffee Can Promote Weight Management and Support Fitness
Drinking one to two cups of coffee a day can reduce your risk of obesity and related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and kidney disease by up to 20%. This is especially true for women, who are more likely to develop these conditions than men.
You’ll also be more likely to meet recommended physical activity levels, which can help you maintain a healthy weight. The antioxidants in coffee can promote weight loss and help with maintaining a healthy body fat ratio, which is important for your overall health.
Increasing your physical activity can help you feel better and live longer, says the American Heart Association. It can also lead to healthier diet and lifestyle choices, which can help you avoid obesity-related conditions.
Coffee Can Reduce Depression
Drinking just a single cup of coffee can improve your mood and lower the risk of depression. It can even increase serotonin, which is your brain’s “feel-good” chemical.
But if you’re prone to depression or have had a recent traumatic event, it’s better to limit your consumption of coffee. Similarly, if you’re pregnant or nursing, you should not drink large quantities of caffeine, as it can cause complications such as heartburn, nervousness and insomnia.