Coffee, one of the most popular drinks worldwide, has been debated for its health benefits. Some coffee drinkers swear by it for its energy and health benefits, while others worry about overconsumption.
Based on scientific facts, here are the advantages and downsides of drinking coffee so you can decide if it’s beneficial for you.
Health Benefits of Coffee
High in Antioxidants Coffee is rich in antioxidants that fight oxidative stress and protect cells from free radicals. Coffee is one of the main antioxidant sources for many people. Antioxidants may reduce inflammation and chronic disease risk.
Increases Cognitive Function and Alertness Coffee is best recognized for improving mental alertness. Coffee suppresses sleep-inducing adenosine with its caffeine. Dopamine and norepinephrine levels rise, improving memory, mood, focus, and cognitive function.
Research suggests that moderate coffee drinking may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disorders including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Improves Fitness Athletes utilize caffeine to improve endurance and minimize effort during exercise. Coffee before a workout boosts adrenaline, making you work harder and longer. Caffeine may boost fat oxidation, aiding weight reduction.
May Reduce Disease Risk Research suggests that moderate coffee drinking reduces the risk of various chronic diseases, including:
Coffee’s effects on insulin sensitivity may lessen the risk of type 2 diabetes among coffee consumers.
See More: 10 Science-Based Benefits of Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Liver diseases: Coffee reduces the incidence of cirrhosis and liver cancer. Coffee can raise blood pressure, although moderate consumption may lower stroke risk.
May Aid Weight Loss Many weight-loss products contain caffeine to boost metabolism and burn fat. Coffee may help you lose weight by increasing metabolism by 3–11%. Coffee may also lower hunger and calorie intake by decreasing appetite.
Improves Mood and Lowers Depression Risk Due to its stimulating characteristics, coffee can enhance mood.
Since caffeine boosts mood-regulating neurotransmitters including serotonin and dopamine, regular coffee consumption lowers depression risk. Coffee drinkers may have fewer depression and suicidal thoughts, according to research.