Health Benefits of Coffee

With so many positive health effects of coffee, justifying your habit is no longer a daunting task. Let’s take a look at a few of the health perks coffee can provide:

Reduced risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Studies find that moderate coffee drinkers (3-5 cups per day) are significantly less likely to develop Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease than light coffee drinkers (0-2 cups per day). In addition, it’s been found that moderate coffee drinkers also have a reduced risk of developing dementia.

Reduced risk of developing gallstones. Research shows that caffeinated coffee drinkers are less likely to develop gallstones and gallbladder disease.

Enhanced analgesics. Caffeinated coffee increases the effectiveness of analgesics, especially headache and migraine medications.

Prevents constipation. Coffee stimulates peristalsis, and induces wave-like contractions along the digestive tract. This peristaltic stimulation can reduce the incidence of constipation.

Antioxidant benefits. Both decaffeinated and caffeinated coffees are significant sources of methylpyridinium, an anticancer antioxidant.

Reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes. Studies find that moderate to high coffee drinkers (7 cups a day) may reduce their risk of Type 2 diabetes by up to 50%.

Liver benefits. In addition to a reduced risk of hepatocellular carcinoma, a primary liver cancer, coffee can also reduce the incidence of cirrhosis of the liver.

Cavity prevention. Studies indicate that tannins found in coffee may reduce the cavity-causing potential of foods and interfere with the formation of plaque.

Increased cognitive performance. While most people drink coffee for its ability to stimulate and increase short-term recall, studies find that drinking coffee can positively effect reaction time, verbal memory, and reasoning skills.

As with red wine, moderation is key to enjoying the full health benefits of coffee. Before diving into a coffee-induced health regime, be sure to speak with your doctor. In the meantime, enjoy your morning cuppa.

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