8 Health Benefits of Drinking Coffee That Not Everyone Knows
What Are the Health Benefits of Drinking Coffee?
You might be familiar with the routine of drinking a cup of coffee every morning to wake up and start the day, but are you aware of the health benefits of drinking coffee daily? Here are 8 amazing benefits of drinking coffee that not everyone knows about:
1. Reduces Fatigue and Increases Energy
Coffee helps reduce fatigue and boost energy levels due to the presence of a stimulant called caffeine. After drinking, caffeine is absorbed directly into the bloodstream and then gradually travels to the brain. In the brain, caffeine blocks adenosine, a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve transmission. When adenosine is blocked, nerve signal transmission throughout the body is enhanced. Numerous reliable studies have shown that, in addition to boosting nerve signal transmission, caffeine can also improve other brain functions, including memory, mood, energy levels, reaction times, and overall cognitive function.
2. Effective Weight Loss Support
Caffeine in coffee can help burn fat and calories, making it an effective aid in weight loss. Some studies indicate that caffeine can increase metabolic rate by 3% to 11%, boost fat-burning efficiency by 10% in obese individuals, and by 29% in lean individuals. However, for those who drink coffee regularly, this effect may diminish over time. If you are on a weight loss regimen, it’s important to limit coffee with added sugar and cream to avoid uncontrolled weight gain.
3. Reduces the Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia
Many studies have shown that caffeine in two cups of coffee can help improve memory and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s, especially in women over 65. Caffeine stimulates the brain by increasing acetylcholine and serotonin (neurotransmitters that regulate cognitive function). Additionally, polyphenols in coffee help prevent damage from free radicals to the brain, protecting brain function in older adults. Some studies suggest that those who drink a lot of coffee have up to a 65% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s compared to non-drinkers.
4. Reduces the Risk of Certain Cancers
Coffee not only helps you stay alert and lose weight, but it also helps prevent cancer. When consumed in moderation, caffeine offers many health benefits, and drinking 1-2 cups of coffee daily can help prevent various diseases, including cancer caused by free radicals. Research shows that coffee can reduce the risk of several cancers, including liver cancer, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, and breast cancer. Studies also indicate that coffee drinkers have a 40% lower risk of liver cancer and a 15% lower risk of colorectal cancer.
5. Prevents the Risk of Stroke
While drinking coffee may temporarily increase blood pressure, this effect diminishes over time. Coffee’s high antioxidant content helps prevent blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases. This means that coffee can help prevent strokes by improving blood circulation, preventing atherosclerosis, and reducing the risk of brain hemorrhage. Drinking 1-2 cups of black coffee daily helps dilate blood vessels, minimize blood clot formation, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including stroke.
6. Coffee is Rich in Antioxidants and Prevents Skin Aging
Black coffee is rich in vitamins and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, manganese, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, and vitamin B5, which have antioxidant properties that prevent skin aging. The B vitamins, in particular, help maintain skin moisture, keeping it youthful. This also prevents many skin conditions and helps rejuvenate the skin. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, even more so than some vegetables and fruits. Thus, coffee helps protect the skin from UV damage and free radicals. Coffee also acts as an exfoliant, reducing early skin aging, such as the appearance of fine lines or wrinkles.
7. Reduces the Risk of Type II Diabetes
According to research from Harvard University (USA), coffee can reduce the risk of type II diabetes. Coffee contains polyphenols, which can reduce the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. The research shows that those who increase their coffee intake by one cup per day have an 11% lower risk of developing type II diabetes, while those who reduce their intake by one cup per day have a 17% increased risk of developing the disease.
8. Enhances Exercise Performance
Coffee not only helps fight fatigue but also enhances muscle contraction. To some extent, it can block pain perception in athletes and increase blood fatty acid levels, enhancing endurance. Consuming coffee before exercising can improve stamina, extend workout duration by significantly reducing soreness, and thereby enhance athletic performance. Studies indicate that black coffee not only boosts exercise performance but also helps burn fat faster.
9. Coffee Reduces the Risk of Depression
As we know, caffeine activates neurotransmitters, helping to control mood. These neurotransmitters include serotonin and dopamine. When you drink a cup of coffee, you often feel more energetic and cheerful because coffee stimulates the nervous system to produce dopamine, serotonin, and noradrenaline. Therefore, coffee helps improve mental health and effectively prevent psychological disorders.
If you are a healthy individual, you can drink coffee daily, 1-2 cups per day. However, avoid drinking too much coffee in one day. If you experience symptoms of “coffee intoxication,” reduce your intake. If you have any medical conditions, consult with your doctor before deciding to drink coffee daily. Feel free to leave a comment if you have any questions!