The Benefits of Drinking Iced Coffee
It’s no secret that iced coffee is one of the go-to refreshments for many people. It’s not only a cooler alternative to other hot drinks but it can also provide an abundance of health benefits when drunk in moderation. From a lower risk of diabetes to a shorter afternoon crash after having a few cups throughout the day, adding a few iced coffees to your daily regimen can actually be beneficial.
Caffeine and its effects have been widely studied and documented. The general consensus is that too much of it is not recommended but drinking moderate amounts of caffeine can offer a boost in alertness and can actually provide some health benefits. It can even help to improve mood and reduce feelings of depression or anxiety in some people.
While some studies show that it can take some time before green or black tea drinkers experience any health benefits, iced coffee drinkers can enjoy the cognitive benefits almost immediately. According to a study published by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, coffee can be a great source of antioxidants and nutritional components. Furthermore, it was found that those that drank it 5 to 7 times a week lowered their risk of type 2 diabetes.
For those looking for a pick-me-up in the afternoon, iced coffee can be a great choice as it is typically low in calories and can give a quick boost of energy. Studies have found that coffee is more effective at sustaining energy throughout the day than other sources such as caffeinated soft drinks or energy drinks.
Coffee Alternatives for Those Who Can’t have Caffeine
For those who are sensitive to the effects of caffeine, there are other non-caffeinated alternatives such as decaf iced coffee or iced tea. These alternatives can still be just as tasty if you prefer something without the jittery effects of energy drinks.
It is important to note, however, that while decaffeinated iced coffee can be a great option for those looking to enjoy a cup without the anxiousness that comes with caffeine, it is not completely free of caffeine. Decaf coffee still contains small amounts of the stimulant and can still lead to similar side effects if consumed in large amounts.
Negative Effects of Drinking Too Much Iced Coffee
As with everything, there are still some risks associated with drinking iced coffee. Too much of it can lead to dehydration due to the loss of electrolytes. Additionally, caffeine is a known diuretic, which means you may ultimately find yourself in the bathroom more often when drinking too much of it.
Moreover, drinking too much coffee can cause restlessness, irritability, and insomnia, as well as an increased risk of heartburn. Coffee can also worsen certain mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, so it is important to be mindful when adding it to your daily routine.
Moderate Consumption of Iced Coffee for Maximum Benefits
The key to enjoying the benefits of iced coffee without the risks of overconsumption is to drink it moderately. According to experts, moderate consumption levels would be 2 to 4 cups per day as long as they are spread out across the day. This way, you can still enjoy the alertness and health benefits without having to worry about any adverse effects.
Additionally, it is important to remember to drink plenty of water or other hydration beverages in order to avoid dehydration and electrolyte loss. To enjoy iced coffee safely and within the recommended consumption levels, try to limit yourself to 2 cups per day and always monitor your consumption levels.
Alternative Ways to Get Your Coffee Fix
Although moderate consumption of iced coffee is recommended, you may find yourself wanting more of the energizing beverage in the middle of the afternoon. Fortunately, there are plenty of alternative ways to get your caffeine fix without having to resort to drinking a cup of joe.
For those who still want that energizing buzz and don’t want to compromise on taste, try making a Bulletproof Coffee. This is essentially a cup of coffee containing grass-fed butter and MCT oil. This drink can provide a quick pick-me-up and a boost of healthy fats that provide numerous health benefits.
Alternatively, try using cold brew coffee. This is a process of cold infusing ground coffee and then straining it in a filter to get a delicious cup of iced coffee without all the jitters. Cold brew may take slightly longer to prepare but it can provide a smooth and refreshing flavor with a lighter body and less acidity than standard iced coffee.
Health Alternatives for a Coffee Fix
For those looking for a more health-conscious alternative to their daily caffeine fix, there are plenty of options. Herbal tea is an excellent source of essential vitamins and nutrients and can provide healing benefits while still providing some energy. Turmeric, ginger, and chamomile teas are some of the most popular options.
Drinking herbal teas can also help to boost metabolism, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation and stress. Additionally, green smoothies made with spinach, broccoli, or kale are also a great way to get some energy without having to rely on caffeine. These can provide natural energy and all the essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs while providing a tasty and refreshing pick-me-up.
Conclusion
It is perfectly fine to drink iced coffee every day as long as you do it in moderation and keep your consumption levels to 2-4 cups a day. Drinking iced coffee can provide numerous health benefits, such as improved alertness, lower risk of diabetes, and a shorter crash after having a few cups throughout the day.
However, it is important to remember that too much of it can cause adverse effects. It is important to listen to your body and monitor your consumption levels. For those who are caffeine-sensitive or want a more health-conscious alternative, there are plenty of options such as herbal tea and green smoothies. By drinking iced coffee moderately and understanding its risks, you can enjoy it safely.
