Coffee, the world’s second most consumed beverage
in the world, is enjoyed by 90% of Americans each and every day. I am one of
those proud Americans. Within that 90%, a portion chooses decaf for fear of
possible health-related issues. I am not one of them. To me, that is
anti-American. There is a reason wars were fought over coffee, because it's
that good. Don't ruin it by ordering decaf.
Regardless, research supports that moderate consumption
of coffee (2-3 cups/day) is not only safe, but has many health benefits!!!
Like with most things in life, moderation is the
key. There have been some studies that report health related issues in excessive coffee
consumption. Those may include: interference with sleep patterns, increased
blood pressure, non-fatal heart attacks, increased PMS symptoms, and increased
risk of miscarriage. Basically, most of these side affects are related to
an increased heart rate. Meaning, don't drink so much coffee that you run
around shaking like a crack head.
Again, this research was found in excessive coffee
drinkers who also were coffee drinkers with caffeine sensitivities. With
moderate consumption, there is an abundance of research that suggests health
benefits. These benefits may include:
Antioxidant consumption (can make up 50-70% of daily
intake)
60% reduced risk in prostate cancer
80% decrease in Parkinsons
Despite all the benefits listed, the chatter still
exists about all the negative effects of coffee. What makes coffee
bad is the crème and 4 tablespoons of sugar and syrup!!! If you feel like you
need 3 years of French class to order your drink, it's probably not good for
you. Calorically speaking, black coffee is contains about 10 calories.
Starbuck's Holiday Eggnog Latte has 480 kcals with 21g of fat.
In addition to the benefits previously mentioned,
an ol' cup of joe has a tremendous amount of health benefits when consumed
moderately. That list includes:
25% decrease in Colon Cancer
80% decrease in Cirrhosis
50% in Gallstones
Possible reduction in Altzimers
Reduced risks of Diabetes
Research on coffee continually shows a relationship
to the reduction in many serious diseases. With an abundance of healing
properties, coffee contains generous source of Antioxidants that may make up as
much as 50-70% of the daily intake in Americans!
Another great attribute of coffee is its affects on
performance. Several studies have shown that roughly 350mg of coffee can
increase performance around 11%, mostly in the case of endurance athletes. I,
personally, consume coffee as a pre-workout supplement. It increases my focus
and gives me a little boost. And I like my coffee like my lab, Tex: Black and
Strong. A small coffee is also way cheeper then the 'nitro booster 2k
muscle pump amp' crap you're probably taking. Those are just stimulants to get
your heart racing. It's not worth your money and some of it isn't safe. If
you like that, hell, meth is cheaper and does the same thing.
Lastly, please stop believing that coffee will
dehydrate you!! Coffee is 98% water! A military study showed no significance
in urine loss between soldiers who consumed no coffee, a moderate 200mg and
high 400mg. The same study proved the 11% increase in performance.
So all in all, coffee is perfectly fine in moderation (just like
everything else!). And it has numerous health benefits. So next
time you’re in need of a pick me up, don’t be afraid to reach for the coffee
pot.
