The great debate continues about whether coffee is healthy or not, but the truth is that it all really comes down to quality and quantity. Do you drink coffee? According to one poll, 64% of adults in the United States reported drinking at least one cup of coffee a day, and 25% say they’re addicted.
Those polled had no intentions of giving up their precious cup of joe, and why should they? It turns out there are several ways that coffee can be beneficial to your health. Moderation is key to reaping the health benefits without going too far, and quality matters, but drinking one or 2 cups of a coffee a day can help lower your risk of type 2 diabetes and certain types of cancer, and even help your body fight off some serious health conditions!
Drink coffee? Check out these 10 reasons to keep that healthy habit!
1. Coffee Helps Fight Liver Cirrhosis
Coffee may help reduce your chances of developing alcohol-related cirrhosis. A review in Alimentary Pharmacology Therapeutics found that drinking a few cups of coffee a day may lower your risk of developing the liver condition by 44%.
2. Coffee Lowers the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of diabetes than those who don’t drink coffee. It’s believed that decaf coffee may help keep blood sugar under control.
3. Coffee Protects Against Heart Disease
Researchers found that regular coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of death from heart disease, along with a reduced risk of dying at a younger age.
4. Coffee May Protect Against Cancer
According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, the antioxidants found in coffee can help protect the body against cancer. Good quality coffee beans contain Vitamin B, antioxidants and phytochemicals.
5. Coffee May Reduce the Risk of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
Caffeine stimulates the brain, and research shows that drinking a few cups of coffee a day might protect the mind against Alzheimer’s, while easing symptoms of those who suffer from Parkinson’s disease.
6. Coffee Helps to Eliminate Body Fat
The caffeine in coffee can boost your metabolism and prove beneficial for weight loss. Skip the cream and sugar to reap this benefit. (They add extra calories and may actually promote body fat!)
7. Coffee Improves Brain Power
Studies have shown that coffee may help improve critical thinking skills and memory, and not just temporarily. It’s believed that the caffeine in coffee may have positive long-term effects on thinking skills and memory.
8. Coffee May Relieve Pain
For those who suffer from chronic pain, coffee can act as an anti-inflammatory and provide pain relief in the body. Studies also show that one cup of black coffee can provide relief from headaches.
9. Coffee Boosts Adrenaline
Researchers believe that coffee can increase adrenaline levels, which can lead to significant improvements in physical performance and keep the body active and physically fit.
10. Coffee Aids in Digestion
While drinking too much coffee can lead to heartburn or dehydration, consuming it in moderation can have a healthy impact on your digestive system. It can also relieve constipation.