George K.
“Can we meet up for a cup of coffee?” This statement is often used by people as they look forward to making up, sealing a deal, or talking about serious business. Well, coffee is among the most consumed beverages worldwide, and whatever effects it has on us, the consumers, are worth debating about. This amazing brew, for instance, comes in different types, flavors, ingredients, and caffeine concentrations, among other factors. You probably know that already, but here are a few important things you should know about coffee.
Helps in Weight Loss
Those coffee dates are much better than the ice cream and milkshake treats because coffee contains magnesium and potassium. These are compounds commonly known for the reduction of cravings, for sugary foods, treats, and snacks. Could that be the reason why most coffee cups go without an accompaniment?
It also helps the human body use insulin, regulate blood sugar levels, and burn fat. When the fat is melted down, the body uses the energy generated as fuel to power your physical and biochemical activities. However, white coffee may not assist much with weight loss because of the calories in milk and sugar.
Coffee Cultures Vary
Different countries have different coffee cultures. This means that a cup of flat white coffee could have a different name elsewhere, and the ingredients may also vary. When ordering coffee online or at a store in a different country, you may need to know the specific terminology used there. The last thing you want is to get a macchiato when you need espresso, which is known as short-black in places like Australia.
Boosts Your Physical Performance
If you know something about the Adrenaline hormone, it enhances your performance and endurance levels, reduces fatigue, and strengthens muscle contraction. Adrenaline helps prepare your body for “war,” If you are into working out; taking a cup of black coffee an hour before exercise can help boost your performance significantly.
May Cause Insomnia and Restlessness
That cup of your favorite brew can have some downsides too! Coffee contains caffeine, which may cause restlessness and the loss of sleep depending on when and how much you take. We are advised against taking more than 400 milligrams of coffee in a day. Moreover, we are advised to take coffee at least 6 hours away from bedtime to avoid tampering with our sleep patterns. If you are caffeine sensitive, you should be very careful with your intake. Similarly, if you have social anxiety disorders, taking caffeine in large quantities may increase your risk of anxiety attacks.
Reduces Risk of Cancer
As long as you take it in moderation, coffee can help protect you from one of the planet’s most troublesome diseases – Cancer. Coffee has also been shown to possess some anti-cancer effects. For instance, research shows that coffee can help prevent the development of basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that is significantly common. Some studies have also shown that taking coffee regularly may reduce the chances of developing rectal, breast, liver, and colon cancers.
Coffee Curbs Depression
We cannot afford to ignore how depression has claimed many lives. Every day, there is a case of suicide from all the corners of the earth. Well, it so happens that a cup of coffee with a trusted friend can help you vent off your worries and prevent depression. When shared, a problem is half solved. Moreover, the caffeine in coffee activates neurotransmitters that have a positive impact on your mood. It is a stimulant that gives you an energy kick in just a few minutes. As long as you don’t take too much of it, it could help ward off stress and prevent anxiety.
Coffee Is a Source of Antioxidants
Coffee is known to contain more powerful antioxidants than the commonly known green tea and cocoa. Antioxidants fight inflammation in the body, protecting you from chronic illnesses such as arthritis, atherosclerosis, and some types of cancer. Chlorogenic acid, for instance, is one of the antioxidants exclusively found in coffee. It is known to help prevent cardiovascular diseases. Lastly, at the micro-level, antioxidants protect the cells from being damaged by free radicals and toxins that find their way into the body.
If you did not know, now you know that coffee has much more to offer than the sips we take with friends over the catch-up meet-ups we organize after work or over the weekend. It can help improve your health and overall wellbeing, but only as long as you don’t abuse it. The above are just a few essential things worth knowing about coffee.
