The hectic day becomes more manageable with a cup of coffee as its rich aroma gives a gentle reminder to pause, breathe, and recharge. However, coffee is not only a drink that boosts energy and attention span; the little coffee beans have many health benefits that excite you to start brewing.
Antioxidants and other bioactive compounds, for example, present in coffee, may reduce internal inflammation and protect against headaches and strokes. Additionally, coffee reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes, aids in weight loss, and enhances concentration and focus. Whether you are just a coffee admirer or a devoted coffee lover, there is still much more to learn about why coffee is a must to start your day with. So, keep reading!
How Coffee Can Be Good for You: The Proven Health Benefits
Starting a day with coffee is a pleasure for many, as it lets them stay active all day. Not only that, it has many health benefits, including the following:
Boost Energy Level
The coffee's special blend of caffeine and bioactive compounds makes it an energizing drink. Also, because of these compounds, coffee can improve your stamina and endurance. The caffeine in coffee stimulates the central nervous system and helps combat tiredness. Additionally, coffee boosts the production of dopamine and other neurotransmitters that control energy levels in your body. A study reveals that caffeine consumption significantly decreased fatigue and tiredness during a workout by 12%. Another study found that taking caffeine before and during a game of golf improved efficiency, raised energy levels, and decreased feelings of tiredness.
Support Brain Health
Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease are two neurodegenerative diseases. Regular consumption of coffee can reduce the risk of both these diseases (because of the caffeine present in coffee). According to one study, males who consume more than four cups of coffee daily are five times less likely to develop Parkinson's disease than others. The researchers have also discovered that coffee drinkers may be less susceptible to cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and depression. Another research was conducted on women aged 65 or older. All of them used to take two to three cups of coffee daily. The results showed that all of these women had a lower risk of dementia. Isn't it amazing?
Help in Weight Loss
Caffeine has gained popularity as a vital skin-care ingredient. But do you know it has also been utilized for decades for weight loss? That’s because coffee accelerates "thermogenesis." Interestingly, black coffee is preferred over milky coffee for weight management as fat in the milk or the additional sugar can cause weight gain. But don't rely only on coffee when trying to reduce weight. You should also include some physical activity and a fiber-rich diet in your routine. Plus, drinking lots of water can also be effective. Coffee can also improve gut health. But, as it can retain water in the body and cause weight gain, moderation is necessary to achieve the desired goals.
Support Heart Health
Coffee lowers inflammation and blood pressure, ultimately reducing the risk of heart disease. According to a study conducted in 2013, drinking two to three cups of coffee daily can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 10%. Aside from that, coffee can also reduce the death rate. Although coffee offers many health advantages, it's vital to remember that too much coffee consumption can have adverse consequences. For instance, if you consume more than five cups of coffee each day, you may suffer from anxiety or face sleep problems.
Reduce the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Though it may surprise you, bur coffee also reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. That's because coffee maintains the function of the beta cells of the pancreas. These cells regulate insulin production, which controls the blood sugar levels in your body. Coffee also has enough antioxidants, which greatly impact insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and metabolism; these can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes. A study was conducted in 2014 in which more than 48,000 people participated. All the participants increased their coffee intake (at least one cup per day) for over four years. The results proved that the risk of diabetes was reduced by up to 11% compared to those who don't consume coffee.
Provides Protection Against Liver Disease
The coffee consumption can be beneficial for your liver. Coffee can improve the liver enzyme levels. Plus, coffee also reduces the risk of death from cirrhosis and liver scarring (fibrosis and cirrhosis). The latest study reveals that coffee can reduce liver stiffness, indicating scar tissue or liver fibrosis. Another study shows that coffee consumption reduced the chances of developing chronic liver disease (CLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma by 46% and 38%, depending on the dosage. So, start your day with coffee and let your liver live a healthy life!
Reduce the Risk of Cancer:
Several studies have proved that coffee can reduce the risk of different types of cancer, including liver, colorectal, and breast cancer. Scientists believe that coffee reduces the risk of cancer because of its antioxidants. The antioxidants combat harmful molecules called free radicals and protect your cells. Aside from that, black coffee decreases the breakage of DNA. Though this breakdown occurs naturally, it mostly leads to tumors or cancer (if not repaired by the cells). During a study, researchers also proved that coffee drinkers were 26% less likely to develop colorectal cancer than those who don’t consume coffee.
Conclusion:
Coffee is a popular beverage with many health advantages, such as boosting energy, helping people control their weight, reducing cancer risk, supporting heart and brain health, and preventing chronic diseases. However, to get all these benefits and enjoy your coffee every day, moderate your coffee consumption. Otherwise, too much coffee can cause dehydration, gastrointestinal problems, and increased blood pressure.
