If you know me, you’ll know that I’m a genuine coffee lover. (I even manage a separate Instagram account solely dedicated to showcase my latest coffee adventures.) Which brings me to say that you’re probably reading this article, because:
A) you also have a similar love for coffee
and/or
B) you want to tell your non-coffee drinking friends that a cup of morning Jo has health benefits (and that they should stop pestering you to stop drinking coffee).
Whatever the reason, go ahead and read on to discover 5 health facts you may not have known about coffee. It’ll definitely level up your coffee game.
- Cold brew coffee gives you more energy.
Have you ever noticed yourself getting a higher jolt of energy when drinking cold brew coffee as opposed to a regular cup of hot coffee? That’s because depending on how it’s prepared, the same coffee beans can yield two completely different levels of caffeinated coffee. Next time you want to go on that long run, try drinking a cup of cold brew 30 minutes before you lace up your running shoes. - Decaf coffee doesn’t mean caffeine-free
USDA’s only requirement to categorize coffee as “decaf” is that it must be at least 97% caffeine free. You might shrug off the 3% of caffeine a decaf coffee may have but it’s still a high enough amount to keep the caffeine-sensitive drinkers up at night. The amount of caffeine in decaf coffee depends on the type of coffee bean and method of brewing. If you’re in the mood to enjoy the taste but not the jitters, try going for a decaf drip earlier in the day - Coffee may lower your risk of Type II Diabetes
According to findings from CDC, diabetes was the 7th leading cause of death in 2013. But good news! Consuming a moderate amount of coffee is associated with reduced risk of Type II Diabetes. Findings show an association of reduced risk of long-term health risks with individuals who drink moderately (3-5 cups of coffee a day). But don’t OD on the coffee just yet, if you don’t drink 3-5 cups regularly, there is no need to up your intake, as “moderate amounts” may mean 1 cup for person A and 5 cups for person B. It all depends on how your body takes in caffeine. Remember, the association is to drink moderately. - Sore from post-gym muscle pain? Let coffee come to the rescue
According to a study done at the University of Georgia a couple cups of coffee can reduce muscle pain and soreness from post-workout by as much as 50%. Are your quads burning from leg day? Ditch the ibuprofen and brew some coffee! Does post-gym soreness scare you away from starting an exercise regimen? Squeeze in a cup of coffee before working out and don’t let soreness be a deterrent to an enjoyable hour at the gym. - Your morning cup o’ Jo, has antioxidants
According to a news release by the American Chemical Society, coffee has been deemed as the leading source of disease-fighting antioxidants since much of the American diet is consisted of coffee. It makes sense since you don’t normally see people munching on beets and broccoli all day (although these foods should be incorporated into your diet). This type of antioxidant paired up with the magnesium which is also found in coffee can do wonders to your blood sugar levels.
A word of caution: Please drink responsibly and with moderation (I’m talking about coffee, of course). Having too much caffeine in your diet can increase your heart rate, stain your pearly whites, give you heartburn, and cause dehydration that can potentially wreak havoc on your health. Always remember, no matter what you eat or drink, having too much of something will always throw your body out of balance.
Tune in next time for secrets to ordering a healthier option at your local coffee shop!
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