It is well known that tea and coffee are the most consumed natural drinks in the world. Coffee, a spectacular drink because of the energy it provides, is the favorite of many people around the world to face the days, especially in the morning. In this article, we will talk about the Health Benefits of Coffee due to its properties and qualities.
Before entering the subject, it is good to know what are its chemical components and nutritional value.
Chemical Components and Nutritional Value of Coffee
More than 1000 different chemicals are the compounds in coffee. These include amino acids and other nitrogenous compounds, sugars, polysaccharides, linoleic acid, triglycerides, diterpenes. Volatile and non-volatile acids, caffeine, phenolic compounds. And volatile substances such as those that contribute to the aroma of coffee, vitamins, and minerals. Plus, others that coffee acquires during roasting since significant variations occur in the concentration of these components according to the variety of coffee and the degree of roasting.
The nutritional value in a cup of black coffee, in 100 grams of coffee (without sugar), we find the following nutritional composition: 0-2 kcal. 0.2g of fat 0.1g of proteins. 97.8g of water, and of course. 40mg of caffeine.
Now, here is our list of all the positive effects of coffee.
1. Coffee and Antioxidant Function
Chlorogenic acids are well recognized as antioxidants, and coffee contains them in large quantities. The antioxidant activity of coffee is not only due to polyphenolic compounds but also to the presence of caffeine and compounds derived from roasting. The highest antioxidant activity is observed in medium roasted coffee (18).
In the United States, prepared coffee was among the 50 richest in antioxidants and sixth place in terms of the contribution of antioxidants per portion of consumption (250 ml). All this makes coffee a unique dietary source of antioxidants with a particular profile and high total antioxidant capacity.
What is the role of antioxidants? As known, antioxidants are molecules that prevent oxidation or cell damage caused by toxic substances called free radicals. These are responsible for generating the destruction of cells, which is one of the causes of aging and the appearance of degenerative diseases.
Free radicals are a threat to health. Some habits or activities are sources of these toxic substances, which can cause an individual to suffer ills with undesirable consequences; if you don’t make good decisions on time. These habits or activities are smoking tobacco, in any of its forms; excessive alcohol consumption, intense exercise, little sleep, stress, excessive sun. An unbalanced diet.
Then, the antioxidants have the function to trap the free radicals that destroy the cells and help maintain the body’s health. If you do not consume enough antioxidants, you can suffer from premature aging and problems in the nervous system (decreasing nerve impulse, reflexes, memory, and learning) and diseases in the cardiovascular system, which can lead to arteriosclerosis.
Additionally, antioxidants help prevent overweight, have high anti-inflammatory energy restoring power, and improve quality of life.
Remember, the adequate consumption of coffee in combination with the consumption of other foods that also contain antioxidants, such as vitamin C. vitamin E. beta-carotene, garlic, broccoli, cocoa, green tea. and more; with its antioxidant function, it will help you prevent disease and have good health, it is the largest source of antioxidants in the world diet. This is one of the huge health benefits of drinking coffee and one of the main benefits of coffee.
2. Coffee as Nootropic Helps Shorten Memory
Nootropics are found in some foods and plants naturally, and synthetically in some food supplements; help amplify cognitive abilities. Nootropics are substances that have been consumed in some way throughout our existence to improve concentration, enhance alertness, and improve memory.
They activate multiple neurotransmitters, causing effects on behavior and mental capacity. Additionally, they increase blood supply and actively function against brain cell damage and cognitive decline. Some nootropic foods help improve memory: coffee, green tea. Turmeric, blueberries, cocoa, etc. These health benefits of coffee as a nootropic supplement is extraordinary because it helps your memory capacity. This is one of the advantages of coffee, and one of the most notable coffee benefits.
3. Coffee and Liver Care
The liver is a fundamental organ of the body. It is responsible for removing or neutralizing toxic substances from the blood; it produces immune agents to control infections and eliminates germs and bacteria from the blood. It also generates proteins that regulate blood clotting and secretes bile to help absorb fats and fat-soluble vitamins. Your health and protection are vital.
Prospective epidemiological studies have reported an inverse relationship between coffee consumption and the risk of liver damage or alcoholic cirrhosis. The relative risk of developing alcoholic cirrhosis in individuals who consumed four or more cups of coffee daily was shallow. Study results suggest that coffee contains chemical components that help protect the liver against cirrhosis development, especially alcoholic cirrhosis. It can be said, without any fear, that coffee is good for the health and protection of the liver.
4. Coffee and the prevention of Type 2 diabetes
In recent decades, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes has increased considerably. This is probably due to changes in dietary habits (increased consumption of high glycemic carbohydrates and fats, lower consumption of antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and polyunsaturated fatty acids) and lifestyle (smoking, sedentary lifestyle) that occur in the population during this period.
A study from a renowned university on the relationship between coffee consumption and type 2 diabetes has just been published. The result suggests that the relative risk (R R) of having diabetes concerning the number of coffees consumed per day. Compared to those people who did not drink coffee, they have an effect considered equal, both for regular and decaffeinated coffee. It concluded that drinking coffee is beneficial in decreasing the risk of type 2 diabetes.
It is intended to teach that if you are prone to have type 2 diabetes because of your family history or other risks, it is healthy to drink coffee, alternating with decaffeinated ones. Studies suggest that coffee helps prevent the onset of the disease.
5. Coffee and Weight Loss
Remember, coffee is rich in antioxidants, so that helps speed up the metabolism before a workout.
Remember, coffee is rich in antioxidants; therefore, it helps speed up metabolism. As for weight loss and to take advantage of the benefits of coffee, it is necessary to follow a varied and balanced diet where consumption of saturated fats, sweets, and sodas is limited.
Keep in mind that the ideal coffee to lose weight and accelerate the metabolism is green coffee. However, some studies indicate that more scientific evidence is needed in this regard. If you are in a slimming process, be careful with the sweeteners you add to your coffee; one of the most advisable is stevia. Because of its low calories. Have you tried it yet? Don’t hesitate either to add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla, a maximum of two drops.
Caffeine is a natural substance that helps to burn fat; it is present in most food supplements that are normally supposed to help you lose weight. The bad news is that these positive effects of caffeine are diminishing in heavy drinkers of alcoholic substances.
If you want to go down a few sizes, don’t forget to consult your doctor or a nutritionist you trust.
6. Coffee and Physical Performance
Coffee is used to improve individuals’ physical performance, including athletes, due to its stimulating effects, which makes its use quite common. Many athletes used to drink several cups of coffee before training or competing because caffeine increases adrenaline levels. According to specialists, this hormone prepares the body for exceptional physical effort. They cause fat cells to break down body fat. Releasing it as free fatty acids, which the body uses as fuel when exercising.
The stimulating action of caffeine, in a natural way. According to numerous studies, it has an ergogenic effect that is to say. It increases the muscular power concerning the corporal exercise. Specialists agree that in all sports cases, performance improves as a result of reduced fatigue throughout the body.
Another effect of caffeine is that it stimulates the body to generate secretion of happiness hormones (endorphins), delaying the appearance of pain when the effort is intense.
If you want to achieve the ergogenic effect, from 1 -2 mg /kg. Its consumption is beneficial.
7. Coffee and Staying Alert
As mentioned at the beginning, coffee is a spectacular energy drink, which allows us to feel concentrated happy, alert, and full of vitality, even if we have not slept well at night. A good cup of coffee when we wake up is spectacular to start the day.
This impressive substance, caffeine, when consumed stimulates the central nervous system and activates and wakes us up because it blocks adenosine, a molecule that induces sleep. Caffeine, when radiated to the whole body by the digestive system, is absorbed by our cells, obtaining the energy they need to break a molecule called adenosine triphosphate (ATP), a process that releases adenosine.
Caffeine is an antagonist receptor for adenosine; that is. It produces the opposite effects and has a similar molecular structure that allows it to block but not activates adenosine receptors. This means that it prevents the relaxing effects of adenosine on neurons from being triggered, reversing the chemical reaction that produces sleep. Also, caffeine can increase positive emotions. Unlike adenosine, caffeine does not prevent the coupling of dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure, in the double receptors, allowing us to feel happier and in a better mood.
In the afternoons, after your well-deserved lunch, a coffee plus a 20-minute nap is the magic formula to recharge your energy and be productive throughout the afternoon. If you haven’t practiced it. I invite you to do so. It’s great. Do it in the suggested order; the secret of this is to have a quick coffee before the short nap. Why? The time it takes for the caffeine to reach the brain is about 20 minutes, to produce those mentioned above. The nap should be 20 minutes maximum, if it is exceeded, you can fall asleep or fall into a sleepy lethargy, and that is not the idea, the point is to take full advantage of caffeine’s stimulating effect.
8. Coffee and Antidepressant Benefit
Coffee is a superfood and excellent natural antidepressant, mild in action, which does not cause side effects like some drugs. When consuming coffee, caffeine does not prevent the coupling in the double receptors as the neurotransmitter is associated with pleasure. It is coupled to the neurons, which in its chemical process, produce dopamine, which is related to anxiety and stress. By taking a small cup a day (about 100 ml), you can experience remarkable improvement Decaffeinated coffee does not produce the same effects. Drinking coffee every day may help reduce the risk of suffering from depression.
9. Coffee and Prevention of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s
Documented scientific follow-ups show that the incidence of Parkinson’s decreased while the quantities of coffee consumed increased. A similar trend was observed with caffeine consumption, regardless of its dietary origin, suggesting that the protective effect of coffee consumption would be related to its caffeine content. The mechanisms involved, however, are not yet known.
Have a coffee at the beginning of the morning not only provides increased energy and attention, and protects against the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, according to new research by an institute.
10. Coffee and Combating Aging
Another interesting health benefit of coffee is that it is an antioxidant. This property makes coffee fight aging because antioxidants protect cells from degenerative damage produced by molecules called free radicals, right? It is the most incredible natural antioxidant known. It is recommended to consume up to 2 cups of coffee per day. If you have hypertension, it is best to consult your doctor first.
Remember, your body requires more antioxidants than free radicals to prevent premature aging; some scientific studies agree there is a relationship between caffeine consumption and lifetime. Some other foods and supplements also contain free radicals, check out the last paragraph of the section entitled. This is one of the huge benefits of black coffee and one of the benefits of caffeine. So answering Is Coffee Healthy? When it comes to anti-aging it seems to be and the caffeine benefits are huge.
11. Coffee and Antioxidant Function.
Keep in mind that a ground coffee or coffee beans poorly stored, loses properties. If you want to enjoy these benefits of coffee, acquire them of good quality and more natural, with that you will have antioxidants that, among other things, will allow you to have soft, elastic, and young skin. Coffee triples the antioxidant power of red wine and green tea.
Enjoy the rejuvenating benefits of this elixir of the gods, starting your day with a good coffee cup. In the evenings, you can alternate with a chocolate or a cup of green tea; that way. You can enjoy three exceptional gifts from nature to take care of your health. Remember, coffee is the most potent antioxidant. If you are one a fasting diet, coffee is perfect. if you’re wondering what does coffee does to you, well, a lot of things and coffee is good for you in moderate amounts.
12. Coffee and Anti-inflammatory Benefit
We know that caffeine is the flagship substance of coffee, which has multiple benefits. One of them is anti-inflammatory, and the secret is in the antagonistic effect of adenosine. When you drink coffee to stay awake, you do so because it blocks adenosine reception, even though you don’t know it. Thus, you reduce the feeling of tiredness and fatigue.
A scientific study has discovered that adenosine stimulates the production of inflammation, a multi-protein complex linked to inflammation processes. By blocking it. It manages to rebound and act as a natural anti-inflammatory, although not in all individuals.
This discovery does not mean that the anti-inflammatory potential of coffee can completely replace a drug. It only speaks of one of the benefits of caffeine; some have dared to suggest that caffeine can replace medicines such as ibuprofen. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect.
13. Coffee and Cellulite
Coffee and cellulite have gone hand in hand for a long time. Although it seems a paradox, coffee is the best ally of cellulite and. in turn, its greatest enemy. Let’s see why!
As one of the objectives of this article is to educate, let’s detail in a simple way. Why it is good and why not for cellulite, so that you do the best for your body.
As mentioned, caffeine and antioxidants are substances that, because of their properties, are incredibly effective and useful in dilating blood vessels and helping skin rejuvenation, particularly in women. However, today it is the most widely used home exfoliant among them to tone the body.
The coffee can finish with the cellulite if it is used at an external level as an exfoliant. Thanks to its antioxidant properties that help to the circulation, as it comes indicated since cellulite is an accumulation of fat in the subcutaneous tissue area.
However, when coffee is consumed, that is when caffeine comes into play since its excessive consumption can produce liquid retention, and this contributes to increase the effects of fat deposits. And not only coffee favors the formation of cellulite but. in general, all foods containing caffeine. Unlike the rest of the foods with caffeine, coffee has other uses that make it a superfood in terms of cellulite treatment.
It is necessary to consider that cellulite can also be due to bad feeding and hydration, by genetic subjects or a sedentary lifestyle. Those individuals more prone to water retention are also more susceptible to cellulite. It’s not just caffeine that is to blame for the appearance of your skin. In these common cases, it is advisable to consult a doctor or cosmetology specialist.
Keep in mind that the antioxidant property of coffee is good for releasing toxins. Not only does it serve to eliminate cellulite, but it can also improve the appearance of your skin. Most anti-cellulite creams include caffeine as an ingredient. If you want to stop spending money on cellulite creams and chemicals, coffee is the cheap home remedy you need.
14. Coffee and Anti-Allergy Benefits, Asthma
We know that caffeine is not only found in coffee but also other drinks and foods. Caffeine has similar effects to theophylline, which is a bronchodilator medication that is ingested to clear the airways in the lungs. This medication improves symptoms of asthma, wheezing, cough, and shortness of breath.
Caffeine as a bronchodilator helps asthmatics relieve symptoms. However, its consumption can affect the results of important tests that determine the severity of an individual’s asthma; therefore, it is advisable in these cases not to drink coffee for six hours before having an exam, and thus avoid bad results or misreading of the same.
Some studies claim that caffeine, in small amounts, can improve lung function for short periods. So drinking coffee may not relieve allergies, but it does help to remove your worst symptoms.
15. Coffee Minimizes Brain Vascular Accidents and Heart Disease
Another effect of caffeine is that it is a vasodilator, which makes the blood more fluid so that it would be able to travel throughout the body with fewer restrictions. Coffee does not increase heart rate, that is a myth, nor does it significantly increase pressure, but it does help to decrease the probability of heart failure or brain vascular accidents.
If consumed in moderation, coffee can be good for the heart. It is advised to consume up to 4 cups daily to generate a cardio-protective effect, whose benefit is that it decreases the risk of heart failure. Do not make the mistake of consuming more than five cups a day; the benefits can be diluted and cause damage to the heart. For the best advice, consult a specialist doctor or a reputable nutritionist.
Coffee and Cancer
More than 1.000 studies have obtained varied results to determine whether or not coffee helps prevent cancer. Recent and better-elaborated studies have demolished the theories that coffee was a cancer stimulant. Many of the most recent studies even link coffee drinking with a lower risk of some types of cancer, including liver cancer, prostate cancer, endometrial cancer, and some throat and mouth cancers.
Results that support these benefits occurred in people who drank up to 6 cups of coffee a day. Which is a lot. As mentioned, too much caffeine can lead to unwanted health situations. If coffee is consumed mixed or accompanied by cream, sugar, fat, and added calories, this mixture can increase the risk of cancer.
So. drink your coffee as healthy as possible. The cancer society suggests that the safest steps to reduce the risk of cancer are: not smoking, having good eating habits and eating healthy, and being physically active. Additionally, be moderate in your coffee consumption.
Coffee and Quality of Life
There are combinations of coffee with other foods or food components, with which drinks can be prepared with reinforcing functions of some of the previously described benefits, which, in general, helps improve the quality of life. You just have to dare to try them. Here are two of them:
– Coffee with cinnamon: This drink combines the benefits of both compounds in the same dose, which improves the immune system, relieves menstrual cramps, stimulates the brain, reduces blood sugar and promotes blood circulation, in a coffee drink with a touch of cinnamon flavor, spectacular!
– Coffee with honey: this drink combines the benefits of honey and coffee in the same dose, with which the defense system is improved in bactericidal activity, it supplies the body with a portion of nutrients and minerals (iron, potassium, calcium, copper, essential amino acids and By C vitamins). Its disinfectant and anti-inflammatory capacities are reinforced, without mentioning the benefits of coffee, which are reinforced by honey. All these benefits in the same dose with the pleasant taste of coffee and the sweetness of honey. If you haven’t tried this powerful drink, just try it!
If you dare to prepare drinks where you combine coffee with other natural compounds, you can obtain and enjoy its benefits in small doses that will help your body’s health.
Summarizing
There are many health benefits of coffee and demonstrated through studies. Coffee, due to its chemical compositions and nutrients, is a spectacular drink considered a superfood for its multiple properties, especially that of antioxidants, where it is an important source. This property, together with those of caffeine, make coffee a beneficial substance for health. Only that its consumption should not be abused since it can cause contrary and dangerous reactions for the health.
Epidemiological studies carried out in the last decade, in a consistent way. Show the existence of an inverse connection between coffee consumption and the risk of type 2 diabetes, hepatic damage, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. This, thanks to the health benefits of coffee.
Studies that evaluated coffee as a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases have given contradictory results, suggesting an eventual negative effect with high consumption, higher than nine rates per day. It is advised not to exceed the consumption of five cups of coffee per day. In case of any effect, consult a doctor or nutritionist.
The potential effects of coffee consumption on the risk of cancer, the reported antecedents, are generally contradictory or sometimes anecdotal, which is why they are insufficient to establish solid conclusions regarding the real role of coffee in these pathologies.
The health benefits of coffee are so many that you cannot start your daily activities without drinking a cup of this spectacular beverage; for something, it is the preferred drink of many around the world.
