DRINK COFFEE
FOR HEALTH
FOR HEALTH
The stained teeth, bad breath, headaches and caffeine crashes can deter even the modestly health-conscious lady from reaching for that morning cup of coffee. But then there is that blissful smooth latte or mocha experience that heightens the day and reaffirms coffee's irresistible allure. Despite coffee's downsides, research is proving that coffee, in moderation, also carries health benefits in addition to making your mornings complete. Here are some of the health benefits of your daily cup of coffee.
One of the most coveted effects of coffee is the instant lift in energy and alertness even a single cup can elicit. However, drink too much and you end up with the jitters, inability to concentrate and that awful eventual energy crash. Excess consumption of caffeine – in any form – has negative side effects. But you can enjoy a modest daily amount – one to three cups of coffee – and take advantage of the health benefits associated with this ubiquitous drink.
COFFEE AND LIVER FUNCTION
Regular coffee intake lowers the level of liver enzyme activity. This is beneficial to health because high enzyme activity indicates that the function of the cells is deteriorating. The two chemicals responsible for this action are cafestol and kahweol. Although they are diterpenes known to increase serum cholesterol, they also possess anti-carcinogenic properties. Epidemiological studies have found an inverse association between coffee consumption and the risk of certain types of cancers such as colorectal cancers.In regards to the effect of the diterpenes on cholesterol, research suggests drinking filtered coffee because the coffee filter removes the offending diterpenes. And levels of these diterpenes in instant coffee are also low.
In addition, coffee reduces the risk of developing alcohol and non-alcohol related cirrhosis of the liver. However, this does not mean you can drink more alcohol if you drink coffee. Keep your intake of both beverages in moderation.
COFFEE AND GALLBLADDER FUNCTION
The Journal of American Medical Association recorded a study of men who drank two to three cups of coffee – filtered, instant or espresso – per day. The results showed a 30 to 40 percent decrease in the risk of gallstone disease. Women’s reactions were similar but not as prominent.Not only that, downing a cup of coffee will increase bile flow, which in turn limits the development of stones in the gallbladder.
THE ANITOXIDANTS ADVANTAGE
Coffee beans contain more antioxidants per serving than some highly-touted super foods, like blueberries, pushing coffee to the top of the list for antioxidant levels. The antioxidant in coffee beans is called chlorogenic acid, which is related to the antioxidants found in grapes.According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, people over 65 who drank four or more caffeinated beverages per day had a 53 percent lower risk of heart disease than non-coffee-drinkers. This is due in part to the role antioxidants play in protecting cells against free radicals. Antioxidants also suppress inflammation, which has a beneficial effect on heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer’s and other conditions caused by inflammation.
HOW MUCH CAFFEINE?
So, just how much caffeine is in a cup of coffee?Surprisingly, black tea contains more caffeine per ounce than coffee. However, more coffee grounds are used per cup, so coffee ends up providing more caffeine per serving. Coffee experts say that the amount depends on the roast, the method of brewing, the strength of the brew and the origins of the coffee.
In a five-ounce cup of coffee, the amount of caffeine ranges from 115 milligrams from a drip coffee maker to 80 milligrams from a percolator. Espresso shots average about 40 milligrams of caffeine and a five-ounce cup of instant coffee contains around 85 milligrams of caffeine. And be aware that your evening order of decaf is not completely caffeine free. Decaf coffee contains about 3 milligrams per five-ounce cup.
Another source of caffeine is medications – some pain relievers, like Excedrine, can contain up to 120 milligrams or more per dose. Take note that if you are getting headaches because you don’t drink coffee, you might want to slowly reduce your caffeine intake – headaches are a symptom of caffeine withdrawal.
That being said, a caffeine fix is not a cure all but it does give coffee drinkers a reason to feel good about that bitter – healthy – liquid to trickle down their throats. If you are not a coffee drinker, you don’t need to start guzzling coffee solely for disease prevention. However, if you do take up the coffee habit, keep it in moderation and just remember to carry a stick of gum with you!
