Benefits of Drinking Coffee
Drinking coffee has been associated with a myriad of health benefits, ranging from improved cognitive functioning to lower risks of disease. There is a reason why coffee is the second most popular beverage in the world after water—it has numerous positive impacts on health.
Cognitive Boost
Studies consistently find that consuming moderate amounts of coffee — about 300 milligrams or two to three 8-ounce coffees — can have a positive effect on cognition. It activates the nervous system, including the brain receptors, which can lead to alertness, improved focus, and enhanced cognitive functioning. Coffee can also help to reduce the feeling of fatigue and improve the energy levels, making it easier to concentrate.
Physical Health Benefits
Apart from enhancing cognitive functioning, coffee may also be beneficial for physical health. There is a growing body of scientific evidence which suggests that mild to moderate consumption of coffee can lead to reduced risks of certain chronic diseases like Type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer. Furthermore, caffeine contained in coffee is known to boost the metabolism and help to burn fat, which plays an important role in weight management.
Mood Enhancer
Drinking coffee is also known to have a positive effect on the mood. Caffeine contained in coffee increases the amount of dopamine — a hormone associated with happiness and pleasure — in the brain, which leads to improved motivation and feeling of well-being. Furthermore, the ritual of drinking coffee — such as visiting the local cafe or chatting with friends — can be psychologically stimulating and may further enhance the mood.
Antioxidant Properties
Coffee has a wealth of antioxidants which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. These compounds neutralize the dangerous effects of these molecules and work to protect the cells from damage by promoting health and longevity.
Psychological Benefits
The positive mental and psychological benefits of drinking coffee have been well-documented in scientific research. A moderate intake of coffee is known to reduce feelings of stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. Furthermore, research has shown that coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of depression in the long-term.
Increased Physical Performance
Caffeine contained in coffee can also improve physical performance when taken prior to exercise. Studies have found that it can increase alertness, improve reaction times and reduce the perception of effort and fatigue. This can be beneficial for those who want to boost their physical performance in the gym or on sports field.
Diuretic Effects
Drinking coffee is also known to have diuretic effects, which can help to increase the production of urine and reduce the retention of fluids in our body. This can help with bloating and water retention and can benefit those who suffer from edema.
Effects on Metabolism
The various compounds contained in coffee can have beneficial impacts on metabolic health and help to reduce the risk of certain diseases. Studies have found that regular coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of liver disease, including cirrhosis and fatty liver. Furthermore, moderate intake of coffee has been linked to a lower risk of metabolic syndrome and diabetes risk.
Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties
Coffee is also known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties due to the presence of compounds like chlorogenic acid, which has the ability to fight disease-causing bacteria. This can help to keep our bodies protected against infection and disease.
Reduced Risk of Cognitive Impairment
Recent studies have found that regular coffee consumption can help to protect against cognitive impairment and reduce the risk of developing conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease in the long-term. The antioxidants contained in coffee are thought to be the main reason behind this effect.
Impacts on Cardiovascular Health
Coffee consumption has also been associated with better cardiovascular health and a lower risk of heart disease. Studies have found that those who drink coffee regularly have lower levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol — all of which are important for maintaining good cardiovascular health.
Lower Risk of Certain Cancers
Another benefit of coffee is a lower risk of certain types of cancer. Studies have found that coffee can reduce the risk of developing prostate, colorectal and endometrial cancers. Furthermore, recent research suggests that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing liver cancer and Kaposi’s sarcoma.
Boosting Immune System
Coffee can also have a positive impact on the immune system due to the presence of certain compounds in the beverage. Studies have found that it can help to reduce inflammation and may even be protective against certain viruses.
Gastrointestinal Benefits
The various compounds in coffee can help to reduce the symptoms of certain gastro-intestinal disorders, such as inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. It may also be beneficial for those suffering from peptic ulcers due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Skin Health
Coffee can also have a positive impact on skin health due to its antioxidant content and anti-inflammatory effects. Studies have found that it can improve skin health by protecting against sun damage and even reducing wrinkles.
Reducing Risk of Death
Finally, research has found that drinking coffee is associated with a reduced risk of death from all causes. Those who drink moderate amounts of coffee have a lower risk of dying from respiratory, digestive, and cardiovascular diseases.
