We love our coffee! No, seriously, it’s a never ending affair. And we’re tired of hearing how caffeine and it’s addiction is bad for you. So we went on a little hunt, and discovered, lo and behold, that coffee has its benefits too! Here’s what we found.
1. It can help burn fat
Caffeine is found in almost every commercial fat-burning supplement — and for good reason. It’s one of the few natural substances proven to aid fat burning. Several studies show that caffeine can boost your metabolic rate by 3–11%
Image source – Entrepreneur
2. It cuts the pain
Two cups of coffee can cut post-workout muscle pain by up to 48%.
3. It ups your energy and smart levels
Coffee can help people feel less tired and increase energy levels. That’s because it contains a stimulant called caffeine — the most commonly consumed psychoactive substance in the world. Many controlled studies in humans show that coffee improves various aspects of brain function — including memory, mood, vigilance, energy levels, reaction times and general mental function.
Image source – Eating Well
4. A warrior against cirrhosis of the liver
Another more recent study also showed coffee’s liver protecting benefits. Yet another study showed that both coffee and decaffeinated coffee lowered the liver enzyme levels of coffee drinkers.
5. Lowered risk of Alzheimer’s
There is considerable evidence that caffeine may protect against Alzheimer’s disease. A recent study also isolated the compounds in roasted coffee that may be responsible for preventing the build-up of the brain plaque believed to cause the disease.
Image source – BBC
6. Lowered risk of Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative condition, right behind Alzheimer’s. It’s caused by the death of dopamine-generating neurons in your brain. Studies show that coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of Parkinson’s disease, with a risk reduction ranging from 32–60%
7. Contains essential nutrients
A single cup of coffee contains:
- Riboflavin (vitamin B2): 11% of the Reference Daily Intake (RDI).
- Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5): 6% of the RDI.
- Manganese and potassium: 3% of the RDI.
- Magnesium and niacin (vitamin B3): 2% of the RDI.
Image source – Shambala School
8. Lowers risk of Type II Diabetes
Those who consumed 6 or more cups per day had a 22% lower risk of diabetes. Hint Hint!
9. Less risk of heart disease
Korean researchers found that study participants who consumed 3 to 5 cups of coffee a day were less likely to show the beginning signs of heart disease. Another study conducted in Brazil found that those that consume at least three cups of coffee a day tend to develop less calcification in their coronary arteries.
10. May lower risk of cancer
Coffee appears to be protective against two types of cancer: liver and colorectal cancer. Studies show that coffee drinkers have up to a 40% lower risk of liver cancer, while similar studies found that those who drank 4–5 cups of coffee per day had a 15% lower risk of colorectal cancer.
Image source – oatleyvigmond.com
So, come on over for a cuppa!