Did you know that coffee can actually do more than just give you a morning boost? There are actually a number of health benefits to drinking coffee regularly. So, before you jump to herbal tea, read on to learn more about what coffee can do for you and your body.
Reduction of gallstones
The Harvard School of Public Health recently published a study indicating that regular consumption of caffeinated coffee can significantly reduce the incidence of gallbladder disease and gallstones in both women and men.
Reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease
Two studies, including one published in the European Journal of Neurology, showed that people who drank around 2 cups of caffeinated coffee a day were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than people who did not. or a low to moderate amount.
Reduced risk of Parkinson’s disease
Studies have shown that the amount of coffee and caffeine consumed can be inversely related to an individual’s likelihood of contracting Parkinson’s disease. This means that the more coffee you drink, the less likely you are to develop the disease.
Antioxidant and anticancer properties
Coffee is a powerful source of antioxidants – agents that fight cancer-causing free radicals. Coffee is packed with the compound methylpyridinium, which cannot be found in many other foods and not at the level available in coffee. You can get antioxidants from caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee as long as the beans are sufficiently roasted.
Increased cognitive ability
Studies have shown that regular coffee drinkers often score significantly higher on cognitive ability tests, spatial awareness exams, IQ tests, and short-term memory studies.
The effects of coffee on an individual’s cognitive abilities appeared to be more pronounced in older study participants and in women.
Intestinal stimulation
Coffee is a stimulant and also a laxative. Some alternative practitioners even prescribe coffee enemas to stimulate the lower colon.
However, since coffee is also a diuretic, it can cause constipation in some people.
Reduced risk of gout
A large study of over 45,000 men over a 12-year period showed that the amount of coffee consumed was inversely related to their risk or likelihood of developing gout.
Remember that everything should be done in moderation and health issues should always be discussed with a medical professional. So while a moderate amount of coffee has its benefits, an excessive amount can also cause problems. Excess coffee consumption can lead to irritability, anxiety, sleep deprivation, cardiovascular problems and increased cholesterol levels.
