Health Benefits of Coffee
Coffee is one of the world’s most popular beverages and is consumed by millions of people every day. Usually, this is done for the taste and the energy kick sought from the caffeine. However, what many people may not be aware of is that drinking coffee can also have a significant positive impact on your health.
Coffee is packed full of antioxidants and polyphenols that are linked to a reduced risk of numerous diseases. Studies have found that it can help to protect against Diabetes, improve brain function and decrease the risk of depression, liver disease and various types of cancer.
Coffee can also help to boost your metabolism and help with weight loss. This is due to the caffeine content that acts to speed up your metabolic rate and temporarily increase thermogenesis. The polyphenols and antioxidants in coffee can also work to block fat cells and reduce blood glucose levels.
Due to the benefits of drinking coffee, some leading health professionals have suggested that it should be regarded as being comparable to other staples from a nutritional point of view, such as fruits and vegetables. It is an incredibly nutritious beverage and should be considered as a key part of a healthy diet.
Healthiest Way to Drink Coffee
Despite the health benefits associated with coffee, the way in which it is consumed can have a huge impact on your overall health and well-being. Here are some tips for ensuring that you get the most out of your daily cup of coffee without running the risk of any ill effects:
- Choose organic coffee – studies have found that coffee beans grown organically are much better for your health, as they are free from any pesticides or chemicals that could be detrimental to human health.
- Add some healthy fats to your coffee – the addition of healthy fats to coffee, such as coconut oil, almond butter and MCT oil, can help to slow down the release of caffeine and stop any unwanted energy spikes and fatigue.
- Go for freshly ground – pre-ground coffee might be convenient, but it doesn’t taste nearly as good as freshly ground beans, and can also contain harmful toxins.
- Limit your intake – moderation is key here, as over-consuming coffee can lead to issues such as headaches, insomnia, irritability and an erratic heart rate.
By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure that you’re taking advantage of all the potential health benefits associated with coffee, without the risks associated with over-imbibing the beverage.
Effects of Too Much Coffee
Having said that, it’s important to be aware that over-indulging in coffee can have serious consequences for your well-being. A large intake of caffeine can cause anxiety, irritability and various hormonal imbalances.
It is also worth noting that the intake of coffee can cause problems if you are sensitive to the stimulant. It can lead to high blood pressure, restlessness, a rapid heart rate and even insomnia. Therefore, it is vital that you are aware of how much you are drinking and the effects it has on your body.
So, it really is true – coffee can be an incredibly healthy beverage to consume, but only if you make sure not to overdo it.
Alternatives to Coffee
If you are finding it difficult to drink coffee in moderation, or if you simply can’t stand the taste, there are some excellent alternatives out there that can still provide you with the health benefits. Tea offers a similar health profile to coffee and is available in a vast range of flavors, from light and floral green teas to rich and earthy black teas.
There are also plenty of herbal alternatives that can provide an energising boost and a good source of antioxidants, such as guarana and ginseng. Many of these herbal drinks are low in caffeine, making them suitable even for those with a sensitivity to the stimulant.
Conclusion
Coffee is widely seen as one of the world’s most popular drinks, but it is also incredibly beneficial for your health. The healthiest way to drink coffee is to consume organic, freshly ground beans, combined with healthy fats and consumed in moderation. There are also a number of alternatives available for those who can’t handle the intense flavor of coffee, or are sensitive to caffeine.
