What are the benefits of coffee?
Most of us know that caffeine occurs naturally in coffee, and that caffeine is a stimulant. But it’s more than just a pick-me-up, and it won’t be just your taste buds feeling the benefit.
1 The pick-me-up – and more
Caffeine blocks adenosine, an inhibitory neurotransmitter. That little action allows other neurotransmitters to increase; in simple terms, this is the moment of stimulation. But you don’t just feel more awake and alert - various tests have revealed improvement in awareness, cognitive performance, energy, memory, mood and reaction times.
2 Boosting your metabolism
Studies have shown that caffeine lift the metabolic rate by as much as 11% and increase fat-burning by up to 29%.
3 The buzz brings body benefits
That buzz you feel from a strong coffee is, in part, an adrenaline increase, sparked by caffeine absorption. Not only is your body being prepared for action, but your fat cells start breaking down body fat to be dispersed into the bloodstream as fuel. It’s a double whammy that tests have shown improves physical performance by more than 10%.
4 A good source of vitamins and nutrients
Just one cup of coffee gives you a useful dose of goodness, including magnesium, manganese, potassium, niacin, riboflavin and pantothenic acid.
5 A natural antidepressant
Coffee is a natural mood-lifter – but it seems it can also counter depression. According to a 2011 Harvard study, women drinking four coffees or more a day were 20% less likely to suffer depression. A 1996 study had already claimed that drinkers of that same amount of coffee were 53% less likely to become suicidal.
6 Depression isn’t the only disease coffee fights
Coffee is loaded with antioxidants, which stop oxidants causing cell damage. The antioxidant effect has been linked with fighting cancer and maintaining healthy heart function. In fact, coffee has been shown to have health benefits in reducing the risk of a number of different diseases – you can find out more in our 8 diseases your daily coffee could help you avoid post.