Brewing Wellness

 

For millions around the world, a cup of coffee marks the beginning of a productive day. Beyond its delightful aroma and rich flavor, coffee offers an array of potential health benefits that might surprise you. Let's dive into the science-backed reasons why your daily cup of joe might be doing more than just perking you up.

 

First, let’s take a look into what exactly is in a cup of coffee. Here is a list of the active ingredients:

 

 

• Caffeine: This is the main ingredient and the most well-known. Caffeine increases energy metabolism in the brain which gives you stimulation and focus.

• Chlorogenic Acids: This is a polyphenol antioxidant that has shown benefits to help blood sugar metabolism and reduce high blood pressure.

• Cafestol and Kahweol: Natural diterpenes that are released in the oils from brewing coffee, these have multiple positive functions on the body. Cafestol and Kahweol are linked to anti-inflammation. They also play a role in anti-cancer functions with the reduction of tumor cells.

• Trigonelline: An alkaloid compound found in coffee that research has shown to be hypoglycemic, neuroprotective, estrogenic and antibacterial.

 

Enhanced Cognitive Function:

One of the most well-known benefits of coffee is its ability to boost cognitive function. The caffeine in coffee acts as a natural stimulant, increasing alertness and concentration. Research suggests that moderate coffee consumption may help improve memory, mood, and overall mental performance. Attention span and psychomotor performance have also been proven to be sharper after consuming a cup of coffee.

 

How much coffee should you consume for enhanced cognitive function?

 

Well, the answer is different per person depending on weight and several other factors. However, you want to stay between 250 to 350 mg for optimal performance. Coffee is just like alcohol in the sense of how it affects different people differently. Some people are stimulated from amounts as low as 40 mg and it takes around 450 to 500 mg for other people to get the same feeling. You can play around with how strong you want your coffee to be. Over time you will build up a bit of a tolerance so just add a bit more coffee as this happens to keep you feeling at your best.

 

Antioxidant Powerhouse:

As discussed earlier in the list of active ingredients, Coffee is a rich source of antioxidants. Playing a crucial role in neutralizing harmful free radicals in the body. These compounds are linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including certain types of cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Parkinson’s disease has increased over the years claiming roughly 425,000 lives globally in 2019. Alzheimer’s killed just short of 135,000 people in 2020. It is safe to say that these antioxidants found in coffee will help millions of people in the years to come with neurological damage and diseases.  

 

Heart Health Support:

Moderate coffee consumption has been associated with a lower risk of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death around the world claiming just shy of 18 million lives annually. Studies have found that coffee may help improve cardiovascular health by reducing the risk of stroke, lowering blood pressure, and promoting healthy blood vessel function.

 

Diabetes Defense:

Diabetes is another disease that affects around 10% of the American population and a considerable amount around the globe. Some research suggests that coffee consumption may be linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. The compounds found in coffee, such as chlorogenic acids, may enhance insulin sensitivity and help regulate blood sugar levels.

 

Physical Performance Boost:

Do you think you need creatine or pre work out to be at the top of your game? Think again, a simple cup of coffee can get you the lift you are looking for! Caffeine, a natural component of coffee, is known to enhance physical performance by increasing adrenaline levels in the bloodstream. This boost in energy can improve endurance and provide a temporary edge during workouts.

 

Liver Protection:

Regular coffee consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of liver diseases, including liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. The liver is one of the most important organs and is vital to not only survival but your overall well-being. The antioxidants in coffee may help protect the liver from damage caused by factors like excessive alcohol consumption and a poor diet. Two very prevalent things amongst human beings. Drink a cup of coffee every day to keep your liver protected and functioning properly.

 

Mood Elevator:

Coffee doesn't just wake you up physically; it can also give you a mental lift. With depression being at an alarming high rate currently in the United States, doing the little things every day to help is important. Studies suggest that moderate coffee intake is linked to a lower risk of depression and a reduced likelihood of developing certain mental health disorders.

 

Longevity Benefits:

Believe it or not, coffee might contribute to a longer life. Some studies have found an association between coffee consumption and a decreased risk of premature death. Of course, this benefit is likely influenced by a combination of factors, including the antioxidants and potential disease-fighting properties in coffee.

 

Conclusion:

While enjoying coffee in moderation can offer an array of potential health benefits, it's important to remember that excessive consumption can lead to negative effects such as insomnia, restlessness, and digestive issues. Individual responses to coffee can vary widely, so it's essential to listen to your body and find the right balance that works for you. As with any dietary choice, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance tailored to your health needs and goals. So, whether you're sipping on a latte or savoring a black brew, rest assured that your daily cup of coffee could be contributing to your well-being in more ways than one. Remember, a cup of coffee a day keeps the doctor away! Keep on sipping the bean juice folks and have a healthy day every day!