The Benefits of Drinking Coffee
Ah, coffee. Whether in the morning, afternoon, or with dessert, we love our coffee. In fact, according to a Harvard study, about 54% of all Americans over the age of 18 drink coffee on a daily basis. Of all the foods and drinks commonly discussed in the health community, perhaps no other is accompanied by so much controversy and disagreement as coffee. Is it good for you? Is it bad for you? Or somewhere in between? Let’s take a look at some of the facts.
The Low Down
On a basic level, coffee is actually good for you (though, like all things, it’s best in moderation. Remember, too much of even a good thing can be a bad thing). Loaded with nutrients and antioxidants, your daily cup of Mornin’ Joe can actually do great things for your health. In fact, according to several studies, Americans get more antioxidants from coffee than from any other source, including fruits. Coffee has also been linked to lowering risks of diseases such as Alzheimer’s, dementia, and Parkinson’s, as well as lowering your chances of colon cancer, heart conditions, and a stroke. Some researchers even go so far as to claim that coffee drinkers have longer life expectancies. And along with keeping you alert and focused during the day, there’s even some research that says that caffeine can contribute to fat loss by increasing the calorie burning process in your body, resulting in faster weight loss.
The Right & The Wrong
As with most things, there are exceptions to the healthiness of coffee, including things to stay away from and things to make sure you’re doing while enjoying your daily cup. For starters, drink your coffee black. It may not taste as flavorful or creamy as you’d like, but it’s by far the healthier choice. Most sugars and sweeteners are artificial and turn your previously healthy drink into what’s essentially a dessert. Also make sure that your coffee beans are organic, and remember that coffee beans are known for being heavily sprayed with pesticides, more than most other crops in the world. Do your best to stick to one cup of black, unsweetened coffee that’s made from organic coffee beans, and maximize the benefits you’re reaping from drinking your daily cup of coffee.
Wake Up & Enjoy Your Coffee
As you can see, it’s understandable why there’s so much confusion surrounding the health benefits/negatives of drinking coffee. By following these points and drinking coffee the right way, you can continue to enjoy your favorite drink while simultaneously doing your body a huge favor.
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