Why Coffee is actually good for you: PART 1

For many of us, the day starts with the rich aroma of coffee wafting through our homes. Not only does it serve as a wake-up call, but coffee – done the right way – is packed with benefits that are good for our health. If you’ve ever felt guilty about your coffee habit, it’s time to feel vindicated. So much of the net impact of coffee depends on what exactly you are drinking, how much and when, and your unique tolerance for caffeine. There are many ways to increase the effectiveness of drinking coffee and mitigate the potential downsides. I will address all of these in a later post. For now, read on to find out about some of the top benefits of coffee.

Packed with Antioxidants

One of the most potent sources of antioxidants in the Western diet is not found in exotic fruits, but in our daily cup of coffee. These antioxidants fight inflammation and work to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Yes, coffee is a significant source of antioxidants. In fact, for many individuals in Western diets, coffee is one of the largest sources of antioxidants in their daily consumption, mainly because they consume a relatively small amount of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Here’s a brief overview of the antioxidants found in coffee:

1. Chlorogenic Acid: This is one of the main natural compounds in coffee and has been shown to have potent antioxidant properties. Chlorogenic acid can help reduce blood pressure and is linked to other potential health benefits.

2. Cafestol and Kahweol: Found in the oily part of coffee, these compounds may have protective effects on the brain and liver, and they also have anti-inflammatory properties.

3. Melanoidins: These are produced during the roasting process and have antioxidant properties. Their levels increase with longer roasting times.

4. Quinic Acid: This compound also contributes to the acidic taste of coffee but is known to have antioxidant properties.

5. Caffeine: While primarily known as a stimulant, caffeine also has antioxidant properties.

6. Trigonelline: Responsible for both the aroma and the bitterness of coffee, this compound breaks down into other compounds that have antioxidant effects.

Regular coffee consumption has been associated with a lower risk of various diseases, and the antioxidants in coffee are believed to play a significant role in providing these health benefits. However, it’s essential to keep in mind that excessive caffeine intake can also lead to potential side effects and health issues. As with many things, moderation is key. Also, it’s not just quantity, but quality that matters. There’s a debate about how much of the pesticides in conventional coffee beans are removed during the roasting process. Conventional coffee beans are one of the most pesticide laden crops in the world. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to consume any more endocrine disrupting pesticides than I absolutely have to- so I only drink organic coffee.

Improved Brain Function

The caffeine in coffee acts as a stimulant for the central nervous system, making you feel more awake and alert. It’s no wonder many of us reach for a cup when that mid-afternoon slump hits! Caffeine primarily works by blocking the effects of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and sleepiness by slowing down nerve cell activity. When adenosine is blocked, its sedative effects are negated, leading to increased arousal, alertness, and attention. By blocking adenosine, caffeine also indirectly stimulates the release of other neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This can enhance mood, energy, concentration, and responsiveness. This is also why caffeine can cause insomnia. Everyone metabolizes caffeine differently- some of us can have an after dinner cappuccino and go home and sleep soundly. Others of us (ahem, me) won’t sleep for days if we try to drink coffee past 3 pm. Make sure to tune in to what your body needs at different times of the day and cut off caffeine consumption in plenty of time to relax and unwind before your bedtime.

Next up: Why Caffeine is actually good for you PART 2 (Weight loss, chronic diseases)