While early studies on coffee suggested that it could lead to health problems, recent research provides strong evidence that coffee consumption actually has a number of health benefits. We tell you all about it in the following article. Shall we get started?
Coffee properties
Coffee is rich in polyphenols, plant compounds that may have a protective antioxidant effect. Fresh organic coffee (beans or ground) is better for its higher antioxidant content, and light or medium roast blends are preferable to dark ones. In the following article we will look at the main health benefits of coffee, expanding on what we have already seen in previous articles on the nutritional value of coffee.
Increases energy and performance
Coffee can help some people maintain their alertness and energy levels due to its caffeine content. When coffee is consumed, it is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it ‘fires up’ certain neurons that can improve memory, mood, energy and cognitive function, if consumed in moderation. Other reports suggest that drinking coffee before exercise can reduce exertion rates and potentially improve athletic performance.
High antioxidant qualities
The human body is engaged in a constant struggle to resist toxic substances absorbed through food and drink, environmental pollution, medicines and other pathways. Coffee has valuable antioxidant properties. This means that when you drink that cup of coffee, as well as boosting energy, it strengthens and helps to cleanse those toxins from the body. Drinking coffee therefore reduces the risk of infections developing and other diseases taking hold.
May reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease
The caffeine contained in two cups of coffee may offer significant protection against the development of this disease. In fact, researchers found that women aged 65 and older who drank two to three cups of coffee a day were less likely to develop dementia overall.
Reducing the risk of developing diabetes
The increase in the number of diabetics across the western world is a major health concern. There is hope that the medicinal properties of coffee may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. In fact, there appears to be a clear correlation between the amount of coffee drunk and a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes.
Coffee can help regulate our emotions
This we can totally believe. Coffee may reduce the risk of depression, and the data supporting this possible link is strong: several studies have previously illustrated a reduced risk of depression for regular coffee drinkers.
Why is coffee good for your health?
Coffee is an intricate mixture of more than a thousand chemicals. What defines a cup is the type of coffee bean used, how it is roasted, the amount of grind and how it is prepared. The human response to coffee or caffeine can also vary substantially from one individual to another. Low to moderate doses of caffeine can lead to increased alertness, energy and ability to concentrate. Are you up for it?