Caffeine Buzz and Health Benefits
Coffee is a popular beverage choice among adults, and has been long used to provide a mild boost of energy. But why do people like drinking coffee – aside from the caffeine buzz it provides?
According to Anthony Komaroff, M.D., Editor in Chief of Harvard Health Publishing, coffee contains more than a thousand compounds, including both minerals and vitamins, which have been linked to various health benefits when consumed in moderation. Vitamin B-12 and niacin have been identified among the most beneficial nutrients found in coffee, where sources have indicated it provides as much as 11% of the recommended daily allowance. Studies have also shown that coffee can bring beneficial antioxidant effects, linked to healthier aging and even the potential lowering of cardiovascular disease risks.
What’s more, coffee has also been associated with improved alertness and concentration due to the presence of caffeine. This is because caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and increases alertness, providing an advantage for coffee-drinkers when studying or tackling challenging tasks.
Taste and Lifestyle
Besides the potential health benefits, people often choose to drink coffee because of its taste. Not everyone enjoys the flavor of coffee, however. Its dark, earthy taste might be more of an acquired taste, but there are numerous ways it can be prepared to maximize flavor. Combinations include variations of plant-based milks, syrups and other sweeteners, such as agave nectar, to make the perfect espresso or cappuccino.
Moreover, coffee has increasingly become a lifestyle choice for many. Various cafes have been popping up offering drink options to suit any preference. These cafes have also been known to offer food items to accompany the coffee, from pastries and paninis to salads and sandwiches. In addition, customers can also find delicious teas, smoothies and cold beverages the keep everyone in the family satisfied.
Economical Benefits
Drinking coffee also offers economic benefits. Preparing coffee at home or in the office can be a very cost-effective way to get your daily fix. At home, one can purchase an espresso maker or reliable drip machine, while at the office, some companies offer coffee along with all the needed supplies included. Brewed coffee is also typically affordable at most grocery stores and convenience shops, making it an affordable option for those who are on-the-go.
Coffee Culture
For many, coffee has become a source of becoming part of the larger “coffee culture.” This involves much more than just drinking coffee, including conversations with new people, intercultural experiences, finding a sense of community and comfort. Nowadays, more and more people are taking the opportunity to try different coffees from different places around the world. From Ethiopia to Jamaica, and even to Hawaii, there are hundreds of beans to choose from, each with different levels of sweetness and acidity.
Conclusion
Overall, coffee provides many benefits to people — both health and lifestyle. From its newfound cultural relevancy to its potential health benefits, it is easy to see why so many people drink and love their morning cup of joe.
