Over the last few decades, coffee has become one of the world’s most beloved beverages. A daily routine for many adults, the ritual of drinking coffee has been the source of debate for some time: is it healthy or not? While experts disagree on whether coffee consumption is due to health benefits, there is no argument that regular coffee intake may lead to some beneficial outcomes. It is important to remember, however, that too much coffee can lead to adverse effects.
The health benefits from drinking coffee can be attributed to its high content of antioxidants. Antioxidants have been linked to reducing inflammation, protecting cells from damage and preventing diseases. Studies have suggested that consuming coffee might be protective against type-2 diabetes, some cancers, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s Disease. According to Prof. Tim Spector, Professor of genetic epidemiology at Kings College London, “Coffee is one of the biggest sources of antioxidants in the Western diet.”
Coffee also contains stimulants like caffeine, theobromine and chlorogenic acid. It is the caffeine in coffee that provides the desired effect of increased alertness, greater concentration and improved reaction time. This is why many people turn to coffee for a quick pick-me-up. Caffeine has been known to improve physical performance as well.
Drinking coffee may also be beneficial for cognitive performance and protecting against age-related cognitive decline. For example, drinking coffee seems to improve mood, thinking and reaction time, particularly in people who do not usually drink coffee. Similarly, researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health suggested that coffee consumption lowers the risk of depression in people aged 65 or over.
Experts recommend coffee drinkers to be aware of how their own individual bodies react to caffeine. Drinking coffee in moderations is key. Generally, two cups of coffee is the recommended daily limit, but this can vary depending on an individual’s metabolism and body type. As caffeine is a diuretic, drinking more than the recommended daily limit will lead to dehydration and other health issues.
In addition to the aforementioned health benefits, coffee also holds social significance. People around the world use coffee to connect, engage and have meaningful conversations with friends, family and colleagues. A study conducted in the US found that most people are more likely to stay and chat longer when coffee is served.
The Impact of Too Much Coffee
Like any other food or drink, drinking too much coffee can lead to physical and mental health issues. It can increase anxiety, cause headaches and rinsing, lead to digestive problems or even increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Consuming more than four cups of coffee a day has been associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, palpitations and an irregular heartbeat. It is worth noting that the risk of these issues is greater with people drinking four or more cups of coffee a day, the intensity and duration of the effects of caffeine are unique to the individual.
So, while drinking coffee might have some health benefits, moderation is key. Regular excessive intake of caffeine can lead to long-term health issues and impact wellbeing.
The Effects on Mental Health
Mental health is an important where caffeine is concerned. Regular Consumption of coffee can have an effect on the mind and state of wellbeing. Individuals who are prone to anxiety or stress may notice that too much coffee exacerbates this, while others are more tolerant. For people with anxiety, drinking coffee can exacerbate the condition and makes it worse.
On the other hand, moderate coffee intake can reduce stress and provide some uplift. Moderate intake of caffeine, i.e. a single cup of coffee a day, has been linked to improved memory, concentration, alertness and mood.
Overall, people need to be aware of their own body and mind and what works for them. A single cup of coffee may be tolerable for some and a complete no-go for others. Those who do drink coffee should bear in mind that the effects of caffeine on their body and mind can be quite different than that of their peers.
Coffee and Medication
It is important to remember that caffeine is a stimulant. Stimulants can increase heart rate and make it harder for the heart to pump blood. This is particularly important for people with pre-existing heart conditions, people who are taking medications or pregnant women.
Any caffeine consumption should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially when taking prescription medications. Certain medications, such as painkiller, certain antibiotics and respiratory medications, do not mix well with caffeine and can cause serious side effects. Caffeine can also reduce the effectiveness of some medications. As a general rule, patients taking any medications should ask their doctor before drinking coffee or any other caffeinated beverages.
Others Factors to Consider
It is also worth considering the quality coffee that one is drinking. There are a variety of factors to consider such as the type of beans, the processing, grinding and brewing process. Coffee that is of a high quality will have different health benefits than the average cup of coffee. Similarly, the choice of ingredients and accompaniments can have an effect too. Adding sugar or cream can alter the nutritional value and add unwanted calories.
Organic and fair-trade coffee, if available, is worth seeking out. Such coffee may contain even higher levels of antioxidants than regular coffee, as it is grown without the use of pesticides and fertilizers. In addition, buying coffee from fair-trade suppliers can help reduce exploitation of workers in the producing countries.
Disclaimer
It is important to keep in mind that this article is for information purpose only, and should not be taken as medical advice or substitute for consultations with a qualified health-care professional. Everyone responds differently to caffeine, and it is important to speak to your health-care professional before making any changes to your diet or lifestyle.
