Coffee and tea

3Enx...Akp4

2 Apr 2024

for a better me

How do you take your coffee and are you aware of its benefits?

I don't know about you but I start every morning with a good, hot coffee to get up, get going and be alert mentally and physically! Milk, no sugar please! How do you like yours?

Does coffee really have health benefits?

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, enjoyed by millions of people on a daily basis. Not only does it serve as a delicious pick-me-up, but it also offers a wide range of health benefits that can improve overall well-being.

Wakey wakey, rise and shine!!

What does caffeine do?

Coffee is a beloved beverage that has been consumed for centuries. It contains caffeine, a natural stimulant that can help improve focus, alertness, and mood.

Caffeine, a natural stimulant found in tea, coffee, and cacao plants, is known for its ability to keep you alert and prevent fatigue by stimulating the brain and central nervous system. Once consumed, caffeine is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream from the gut and then metabolised in the liver into compounds that affect various organs.

However, its main impact is on the brain, where it blocks the effects of adenosine, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and sleepiness. By binding to adenosine receptors without activating them, caffeine reduces tiredness and increases alertness. In addition to blocking adenosine, caffeine also boosts adrenaline levels, as well as the activity of dopamine and norepinephrine, further enhancing brain function and focus. This quick-acting psychoactive drug can improve mood and metabolism, potentially aiding in fat burning and weight management. Furthermore, caffeine can enhance exercise performance by increasing fat utilisation for fuel, preserving muscle glycogen stores, and improving muscle contractions and fatigue tolerance.

Overall, caffeine's effects on the body and brain make it a popular choice for those seeking to stay awake, focused, and energised throughout the day.

Coffee actually contains antioxidants?

In addition to its energising effects, coffee also contains antioxidants that can protect against various diseases and promote overall health. Studies have actually shown that coffee is one of the largest sources of antioxidants we have in our diet.

We are constantly at risk from free radicals. Free radicals can damage important molecules and DNA. Antioxidants disarm free radicals. Which means protection against many diseases and aging.

Polyphenols are a type of antioxidant found in coffee. They protect against cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

For this reason alone we can call coffee healthy!

So can we say that coffee is in fact good for us?

Coffee is known for its ability to boost energy levels and improve mental alertness. The caffeine in coffee acts as a stimulant that can help improve focus and concentration, making it an ideal beverage for those looking to kickstart their day. Many people rely on coffee to help them stay awake and alert, especially during long workdays or late-night study sessions. In addition to its energising effects, coffee also contains a high level of antioxidants.

Coffee has been linked to improved physical performance and weight management. Caffeine can increase adrenaline levels in the body, leading to enhanced physical performance during exercise. Additionally, coffee has been shown to boost metabolism and promote fat burning, making it a popular choice for those looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy body composition.

Examples: One study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who drank coffee regularly had a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to non-coffee drinkers. Another study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that coffee consumption was associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. These findings highlight the protective effects of coffee against various diseases and emphasise its role in promoting overall health.

Conclusion: In conclusion, coffee is much more than just a delicious beverage – it offers a wide range of health benefits that can improve overall well-being. From boosting energy levels and mental alertness to protecting against chronic diseases and promoting weight management, coffee has become a staple in many people's lives for good reason. So the next time you reach for a cup of coffee, remember that you are not only indulging in a tasty treat but also reaping the numerous benefits that this beloved beverage has to offer.