Coffee is one of the most popular drinks worldwide. Many people drink it in the morning as it gives them energy, while others consume it in the afternoon as a snack and stimulant to keep them going well throughout the rest of the day. Health and nutrition professionals highlight the benefits of coffee for humans.
Scientific studies have concluded that moderate consumption of coffee, three to four cups a day, is beneficial for health as it protects the body against certain diseases and provides nutrients that help to care for it. Due to its worldwide popularity, World Coffee Day is celebrated every October 1st.
“When we think of coffee, we quickly associate it with a drink that accompanies us at breakfast and gives us energy; it is also our excuse to meet up with friends when we say ‘let’s go for a coffee and chat’. However, beyond caffeine, this drink contains antioxidants and other substances that help us reduce internal inflammation and protect us from some diseases,” says nutritionist Sofía Urízar.
Regarding the variant of decaffeinated coffee and the one that does contain caffeine, the specialist indicates that various studies have shown that both have the same beneficial effects on health, so caffeine is not the only thing responsible for these gains.
Coffee is a drink that has more than a thousand chemical compounds, so even though more and more scientists are interested in the properties of this drink, it is still a challenge to fully understand it. Therefore, these are just some of the benefits of coffee.
Burn fat
Caffeine is a natural metabolism booster. It helps burn fat because it increases adrenaline levels in the body, releasing fatty acids directly from fatty tissues more easily.
Because it increases adrenaline levels, it is also recommended to increase physical performance before training.
“Popular additions that have become popular in this drink, such as whipped cream and sweet syrups, counteract the health benefits of coffee, as they provide calories and can raise a person’s glucose level,” says Gabriela Solís, a nutritionist.
Reduces the risk of suffering from type II diabetes
Coffee contains magnesium and potassium, which help the body use insulin, regulating blood sugar levels. It also provides phytochemicals, which can act as antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds, and enhance insulin sensitivity.
The polyphenols contained in this drink give it anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and different types of cancer, such as prostate and endometrial cancer.
Provides antioxidants
A cup of coffee is a source of antioxidants such as polyphenols and hydroxycinnamic acids. These are important because they fight the attack of free radicals, which delays the natural aging process of the body.
Antioxidants also counteract heart disease.
Protect the heart
Scientific studies, such as one published in Circulation: Heart Failure, indicate that drinking a cup of coffee a day could reduce the risk of heart failure. Others claim that this drink reduces the possibility of suffering a stroke or dying from cardiovascular disease.
Experts stress that it is vital to consume filtered coffee since when it is prepared without a paper filter, diterpenes, and oily chemicals, can be produced that increase LDL cholesterol that damages the arteries.
Provides nutrients
In addition to reducing the risk of certain diseases, such as diabetes and cancer, coffee provides nutrients that are beneficial for health. Among them, potassium is essential for muscle health and counteracts the side effects of sodium in people with hypertension; magnesium regulates blood sugar levels and improves the functioning of the nervous and muscular systems.
The mineral Manganese is vital for the production of cartilage and helps prevent osteoporosis. It also improves memory. Niacin, a B-complex vitamin, controls cholesterol and provides benefits for skin health.
Strengthens brain health
Some studies have shown that coffee consumption could reduce the risk of suffering from dementia and Parkinson’s since caffeine could help control body movement in people suffering from the latter disease.
However, the amount of coffee consumed per day is also stressed, as more than five or six cups could have side effects on brain health.
Promotes digestion
The benefits of coffee can be different for each person. For example, for some, it helps with digestion and bowel movements.
Many of the studies that have been conducted to detail the benefits of coffee have been with small or very limited samples, so it is always recommended that if you suffer from any illness you consult your doctor about the consumption of this beverage.
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