Benefits and risks of coffee

Rose May Pimentel in Health

Sep 04, 2020 • 2 min Read

Everyone loves coffee (well, almost everyone).

Coffee is one of our favorite beverages. It is one of the most commonly consumed drinks worldwide. Some people are hooked on it to boost the energy and others for the flavor. You can have it as hot, cold, strong, or weak. This drink is universally enjoyed, for good reasons. But since it’s so good, is it really good for us?

Looking at both positive and negative, here are some of the health effects of coffee from Healthline:

The good:

1. Coffee Contains Some Essential Nutrients and Is Extremely High in Antioxidants

Coffee contains a small amount of vitamins and minerals, which add up if you drink many cups per day. It is also high in antioxidants.

2. Coffee Contains Caffeine, a Stimulant That Can Enhance Brain Function and Boost Metabolism

The main active compound in coffee is the stimulant caffeine. It can cause a short-term boost in energy levels, brain function, metabolic rate, and exercise performance.

3. Coffee May Protect Your Brain from Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s

Several studies show that coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease in old age.

4. Coffee Drinkers Have a Much Lower Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Numerous studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a significantly lower risk of type 2 diabetes.

5. Coffee Drinkers Have a Lower Risk of Liver Diseases

Coffee drinkers have a significantly lower risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. The more coffee you drink, the lower your risk.

6. Coffee Drinkers Have a Much Lower Risk of Depression and Suicide

Studies show that people who drink coffee have a lower risk of becoming depressed and are significantly less likely to commit suicide.

7. Some Studies Show That Coffee Drinkers Live Longer

Some studies demonstrate that — on average — coffee drinkers live longer than non-coffee drinkers. The strongest effect is seen at 4–5 cups per day.

And, the bad:

1. Caffeine Can Cause Anxiety and Disrupt Sleep

Caffeine can have various negative effects, such as anxiety and disrupted sleep — but this depends greatly on the individual.

2. Caffeine Is Addictive and Missing a Few Cups Can Lead to Withdrawal

Caffeine is an addictive substance. It can lead to tolerance and well-documented withdrawal symptoms like headaches, tiredness, and irritability.

To maximize the health benefits of coffee, it is important not to put a lot of sugar to it. Brewing with a paper filter can get rid of a cholesterol-raising compound called cafestol.

But actually, it’s all about you. People have different reactions to caffeine. And remember, moderation is the key because drinking too much coffee can have some adverse effects. So, consume in moderation, coffee lover! Stay healthy and safe!