Coffee. Do you like it with cream and sugar or do you take it black? If you’re a coffee lover, you look forward to that first cup of java to get your morning started. But the benefits of this popular caffeinated beverage aren’t just limited to providing a jumpstart to your day. It’s been proven that coffee is also good for you in a variety of ways.
Here are seven surprising health benefits of coffee.
Burns Fat
If you walk through the nutritional supplements aisle of your local grocery store, take a look at the ingredients of popular fat burners. Most likely, you’ll see caffeine is listed on nearly all of them. That’s because this natural compound has been shown to significantly aid in the fat burning process by boosting the body’s metabolic rate.
Lowers Risk of Type II Diabetes
Regular coffee consumption seems to be associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, according to some studies.
One review of 30 studies found that for each cup of coffee consumed per day, a 6% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes was found. (ref: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29590460/)
Coffee is also rich in antioxidants, which may affect insulin sensitivity, metabolism and inflammation — all of which are involved in the development of type 2 diabetes.
Protects the Liver
Studies suggest that coffee could support liver health and protect against chronic liver disease. Drinking one cup per day was tied to a 15% lower risk, while drinking four cups per day was linked to a 71% lower risk.
Reduce Likelihood of Alzheimer’s
The risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or other form of dementia increases as we age. Those 65 and over are most susceptible. While there is no known cure, eating healthy and exercising can help to ward off the disease. Studies have also indicated that coffee drinkers may be less likely to succumb to Alzheimer’s.
Improves Physical Performance
Coffee may improve endurance and physical performance when consumed before exercising. Caffeine increases levels of Adrenaline in your blood, which breaks down fat, fueling the body for better performance. The benefits of black coffee sexually are another plus in this regard as this ties in with physical endurance.
Studies show that drinking coffee before exercise improved people’s endurance and decreased their perceived exertion. (ref: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26568580/)
Fights Depression
You might know someone affected by depression or you may experience the condition yourself. Studies show that each cup of coffee people consumed per day was linked to an 8% lower risk of depression.
Another study of 200,000 people found a lower risk of death by suicide. (ref: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23819683/)
A great deal of evidence shows that your favorite morning brew gives you far more than energy and alertness. Drop the drama, Lift the Love!