While we all know Coffee is a widely consumed beverage, not sure we think of it as providing several health benefits. Below is an explanation of its benefits, supported by scientific research.
1. Rich in Antioxidants
Coffee contains powerful antioxidants like chlorogenic acid and polyphenols, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
• Source: A study in Antioxidants (2019) found that coffee is one of the primary sources of dietary antioxidants worldwide.
2. Boosts Energy Levels
Caffeine enhances alertness by blocking adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes sleepiness. It also increases dopamine and norepinephrine levels.
• Source: Research published in Psychopharmacology (2017) highlights caffeine’s role in improving cognitive and physical performance.
(DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4765-6)
3. Improves Brain Function
Coffee consumption may lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
• Source: A review in Neurotherapeutics (2017) found that regular coffee intake reduced the risk of Alzheimer’s by 20% and Parkinson’s by 30%.
(DOI: 10.1007/s13311-017-0521-2)
4. May Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Coffee may enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels.
• Source: A study in Diabetologia (2014) concluded that increasing coffee consumption was associated with an 11% lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
(DOI: 10.1007/s00125-014-3235-0)
5. Supports Heart Health
Moderate coffee consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Source: A meta-analysis in Circulation (2015) found that drinking 3-5 cups of coffee per day reduced cardiovascular disease risk by 15%.
(DOI: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.115.017341)
6. Protects Liver Health
Coffee protects against liver conditions like cirrhosis and liver cancer.
• Source: Research in Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics (2017) found a 40% reduced risk of liver cancer among regular coffee drinkers.
7. Enhances Physical Performance
Caffeine increases adrenaline levels, improving physical performance.
• Source: A study in Sports Medicine (2019) demonstrated that caffeine enhances endurance and strength in athletes.
(DOI: 10.1007/s40279-019-01101-8)
8. Aids in Fat Burning
Caffeine boosts metabolism and promotes fat oxidation.
• Source: A study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (1989) found that caffeine increases metabolic rate by 3-11%.
9. May Reduce Risk of Certain Cancers
Coffee has been associated with a lower risk of colorectal and liver cancer.
• Source: A 2016 review in BMJ found that coffee drinkers had a 26% lower risk of colorectal cancer and a 40% lower risk of liver cancer.
10. Improves Mood and Mental Health
Caffeine positively affects neurotransmitters, reducing the risk of depression.
• Source: A study in World Journal of Biological Psychiatry (2016) found that coffee consumption was linked to a lower risk of depression and suicide.
(DOI: 10.3109/15622975.2015.1132007)
Final Notes
While coffee offers numerous health benefits, it’s essential to consume it in moderation (3-5 cups per day) to avoid side effects like insomnia, anxiety, or digestive issues. Sources and references provided support these claims, offering a strong foundation for understanding coffee’s positive impact on health.
We decided to include Coffee as an Herbal after discovering Volcanica and learning of their history and products. I for one love Coffee from Costa Rica! The folks at Volcanica found their inspiration from their frequent trips to their homeland of Costa Rica! In Costa Rica, where I was blessed to be on Earth Day 2018. As for Coffee from Costa Rica, They say, “We constantly enjoyed coffee with tremendous flavor. At the same time, we knew most people in the U.S. were satisfied with tasteless, bitter coffee and were unaware that coffee could be an exotic experience.” That has been my experience as well; throughout Canada and the United States. So, when I discovered Coffee, from a family whose Mother and Grand Father helped with the harvest, it caught my interest!
Today Volcanica Coffee is a specialty coffee roaster focused on exotic coffees and committed to offering only the finest quality ingredients from volcanic regions around the world.
“The mineral-rich soil from these areas produces coffee that is wonderfully aromatic and remarkable in taste. We carry over 150 different coffees, including single-origin, estate, peaberry, and decaffeinated and flavored coffees.” ~ Volcanica Coffee
By the way, Peaberry Coffee is another of my personal favourites!
You might say I’m a fan of quality Coffee, as well as the people of Costa Rica!
Leave a Reply