Coffee is a very popular drink and drunk by many people all around the world. The good news is that more and more studies are showing that there is a lot of goodness in this particular beverage. There are many benefits to drinking coffee beyond the obvious energy boost that it gives you:
1) Coffee may help you live longer - Recent studies have shown that coffee drinkers are less likely to die from some of the leading causes of death, including diabetes, strokes and heart disease. Research published in the Research Annals of Medicine suggests that having three cups of coffee a day may lengthen lifespan.
2) You are less likely to develop Parkinson's disease - Caffeine is linked to a lower chance of developing this disease and also to managing it with coffee drinkers more likely to have more control over their movements.
3) It may decrease the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease - Drinking two cups of coffee a day may provide significant protection against developing the condition.
4) You are less likely to suffer a stroke - Drinking at least one cup of coffee a day is linked to a lower risk of suffering a stroke.
5) It gives you a lower risk of suffering colon cancer - Studies have shown that coffee drinkers (including decaf) were 26% less likely to develop colon cancer.
6)Your body may process sugar better - This is linked to a reduced risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
7) It protects your liver - Research has indicated that coffee drinkers (regular and decaf) have higher levels of liver enzyme levels within a healthy range than non coffee drinkers.
8) Coffee helps DNA be strong - Dark roast coffee decreases breakage in DNA strands, which occur naturally but can lead to cancers or tumours if not repaired by your cells.
9) Coffee helps your heart - Drinking 1-2 cups of coffee daily can help ward off heart failure.
10) Coffee improves concentration and mental focus which can help you to be more productive.
11) Coffee can also improve athletic performance by increasing your energy and stamina.
How much coffee is safe to drink each day?
Excessive intake of coffee can have unwanted side effects such as increased heart rate, insomnia, anxiety and raised blood pressure. It is generally agreed that 3-5 cups of coffee a day with a maximum intake of around 400 milligrams of caffeine is a sensible level. However everyone has different tolerances so listen to your body and go with what is appropriate for you. Ladies who are pregnant or breastfeeding should check with their doctor as they may be advised to cut down on caffeine.
Coffee drinkers should be aware that caffeine is addictive and suddenly cutting down or stopping drinking coffee all together may have side effects such as headaches.