In need of a coffee revolution?

Thanks to its enticing aroma, unique taste and caffeine kick, coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world. In spite of its popularity, medical practitioners have divided opinions regarding its pros and cons.

Scientists worldwide have only just begun studying the numerous health benefits of coffee. Luckily for those who cannot do without their caffeine fix, there is a growing mountain of evidence supporting their behaviour. Studies have shown that coffee is actually a very healthy drink and is amazing for the skin, brain and body.

Coffee has been found to provide the following health benefits:

• Elevated energy levels and brain function.

Caffeine, the main stimulant in coffee, has been shown to boost energy levels in the body, making drinkers feel less tired. Caffeine is easily absorbed into the bloodstream and is later transported to the brain. Once there, it aids in firing neurons, increasing brain activity and stimulating energy production.

This is good news for students who need to study for long hours since the beverage can assist in keeping them awake and productive.

• Improved physical performance.

Coffee stimulates the nervous system leading to the breakdown of fat into fatty acids. The body easily burns the latter to provide energy. Additionally, coffee stimulates the production of epinephrine, a hormone that allows the body to withstand physical exertion.

• Liver protection.

Students now have a new reason to reach for their Tassimo machines. Studies have uncovered that coffee actually protects the liver from the harmful effects of cirrhosis. This disease is typically caused by excessive consumption of alcohol. Those who drink coffee daily are reported to be at lower risk of developing alcoholic cirrhosis.

• Provision of vital nutrients.

This delicious drink also provides certain nutrients including a variety of beneficial antioxidants. These include riboflavin, niacin, potassium, manganese and magnesium. While fruits and vegetables also provide these antioxidants, the body seems to absorb more from coffee.

• Helps to fight depression.

Depression is a debilitating disorder that can result in reduced quality of life. The good news is that people who regularly take coffee are at a lower risk of developing depression. It appears that the antioxidants and caffeine found in coffee act as mild antidepressants by stimulating production of feel-good hormones in the body. This makes individuals happier and less prone to committing suicide.

• Protective effect on the brain.

Other studies have shown that coffee drinkers report a lower incidence of neurodegenerative brain diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s. These diseases have no cure therefore prevention is crucial. Furthermore, the caffeine found in coffee reportedly helps people suffering from Parkinson’s disease to have better movement control.

While coffee can bestow a wide range of health benefits, excessive consumption of the beverage can do the opposite. In order to reap the most gains, regular and moderate consumption is key. Individuals are advised to restrict themselves to the equivalent of two cups per day. Additionally, people should also ditch sugar and cream in favour of a cup of strong, black coffee.

Photo credit: epSos.de

Tags: coffee, Health

Category: Health