Health Benefits of Coffee
Coffee is enjoyed all around the world. Some coffee drinkers brew their perfect cup at home, while others visit their favorite café on the go. Many coffee lovers refuse to imagine a day without their favorite drink. But is drinking coffee harmful or helpful? Fortunately for all coffee drinkers, studies have shown multiple health benefits associated with drinking coffee! Whew.
Top 10 Health Benefits of Coffee
1. Coffee can improve focus and energy levels.
It's safe to say that almost everyone who drinks coffee does so for a boost in energy. This is due to the caffeine that naturally occurs in coffee. Caffeine works in your brain to boost the production of certain neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters help you focus, improve your memory, and increase your energy levels.
2. Coffee can help you live longer.
Studies have shown that coffee helps reduce the risk of numerous diseases. The data shows that long-term daily coffee drinkers are 15% less likely to die early compared to non-coffee drinkers.
3. Coffee may reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's.
Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that affects memory, brain function, and behavior. Studies reveal that consuming coffee can help lower your risk of developing Alzheimer's by 65%.
4. Coffee helps to protect your liver.
Both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee has been shown to help protect your liver functions. Those who drink coffee are more likely to have liver enzymes within the normal range compared to those who do not drink coffee.
5. Coffee can aid in weight loss.
Caffeine is a proven weight loss aid. It helps to raise your metabolism and burn fat quicker. Caffeine also promotes more efficient physical activity by increasing the hormones you utilize when you exert energy. It also helps to break down fat into fuel to use during your workout.
6. Coffee may lower your risk for a stroke.
Strokes are the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. One cup of coffee per day can lower your risk of a stroke by 20%. If you have pre-existing heart conditions, talk to your doctor about caffeine intake first.
7. Coffee provides antioxidants and nutrients.
Coffee contains essential vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, potassium, vitamin B3, and vitamin B2. Antioxidants are also found in coffee and help prevent numerous diseases.
8. Coffee reduces symptoms of depression.
A recent study has shown that both male and female coffee drinkers are 50% less likely to be at risk of committing suicide. Females who regularly drink coffee were 20% less likely to develop clinical depression.
9. Coffee can decrease damage to DNA.
Damage to your DNA occurs naturally. Your cells are responsible for repairing the damaged DNA. DNA strands that are not efficiently repaired can lead to tumors or cancer. Coffee seems to help strengthen your DNA to reduce damage in the first place.
10. Coffee reduces the risk of Type 2 Diabetes.
Coffee may help your body process glucose better. A combination of studies has shown daily coffee drinkers are less likely to develop Type 2 Diabetes.
Moderation Is Key
The science behind these studies is reassuring. We now have research that shows how coffee can be part of a healthy lifestyle when consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is usually unhealthy. It's important to listen to our bodies and our doctors when consuming caffeine.
Coffee can cause digestive issues, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and can develop into a caffeine dependency. In addition, some medical conditions, such as pregnancy, require you to stop or limit your caffeine intake. Some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others. Luckily, decaf coffee has shown similar health benefits!
So go! Enjoy your coffee... guilt-free!
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