Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages worldwide, and epidemiology studies associate higher coffee consumption with decreased rates of mortality and decreased rates of neurological and metabolic diseases, including Parkinson’s disease and type 2 diabetes. In addition, there is also evidence that higher coffee consumption is associated with lower rates of colon and rectal cancer, as well as breast, endometrial, and other cancers as explained in detail below.
Reduced risk of cancer
Coffee consumption is associated with a reduced risk of several cancers, including skin, liver, prostate, and endometrial cancers, and may also lower cancer recurrence rates, particularly in colorectal cancer. The potential anti-cancer benefits of coffee are attributed to its bioactive compounds, such as caffeine, chlorogenic acids and diterpenes, which possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds may reduce oxidative stress, inhibit cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and modulate hormone levels.
Healthy aging
Coffee consumption also contributes to healthy aging. A study indicates that moderate coffee intake may contribute to extending health span and enhancing longevity through beneficial effects on cardio metabolic health and key biological processes involved in aging.
Weight management
Coffee helps in weight management. Studies show that caffeine may improve energy balance by reducing appetite and increasing the metabolic rate. Any potential aid in weight maintenance would come from plain, caffeinated coffee.
Reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes
Regularly drinking caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee may reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. As a bonus, the caffeine in coffee does not have a notable impact on blood sugar.Coffee naturally contains numerous micronutrients, notably potassium, magnesium, niacin and antioxidants. Its nutritional composition varies depending on the addition of milk, cream and sugar among others.
More energy during physical exercises
A certain percentage of caffeine may improve physical performance during exercise which is associated with increased endurance performance and endurance capacity and a reduction in perceived exertion during exercise. 75mg of caffeine in coffee increases both attention and alertness while improving memory up to 24 hours.
Lower risk of cardiovascular disease mortality
Daily consumption of 3-5 cups of coffee may reduce cardiovascular disease mortality risk.
Protects against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease
A regular lifetime intake of coffee may help protect against age-related cognitive decline and other neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Prevents gallstones
Coffee can stimulate contractions in the gallbladder, thus preventing cholesterol from forming into crystals and turning into gallstones.
Improves connections and fosters communities
Coffee often plays a social role, fostering connections and community. Whether it’s a business meeting over coffee, a social gathering at a café, or a quiet moment alone with a cup at home, coffee can be an integral part of a healthy, balanced lifestyle. The ritual of drinking coffee contributes to an individual’s overall quality of life by providing:
- sense of comfort
- routine
The linkages between higher coffee consumption and decreased mortality for neurologic diseases such as dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease have been extensively investigated, and the results have been variable. It was recently confirmed that high coffee consumption is associated with decreased risks of neurological disorders, including dementia, stroke, and Parkinson’s disease.
Coffee isn’t just a beverage, it’s a lifestyle!