Coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world and has been consumed for centuries. There are many different ways to enjoy coffee, from black coffee to espresso to cappuccino. Coffee is also a versatile ingredient in recipes, from desserts to savory dishes.
Despite its popularity, coffee has been demonized by some health experts. However, recent research has shown that coffee has numerous health benefits. In fact, coffee may even help you live longer. Here are 10 health benefits of drinking coffee.
1. Coffee May Help Protect Your Brain
One of the most well-known benefits of coffee is its protective effect on the brain. Coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Coffee may also help improve cognitive function in older adults. One study found that older adults who drank three or more cups of coffee per day were less likely to experience age-related mental decline.
2. Coffee May Lower Your Risk of Cancer
Coffee contains antioxidants that can help protect your cells from damage. These antioxidants may also help reduce your risk of cancer.
Studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing several types of cancer, including breast, colon, endometrial, and skin cancer.
3. Coffee May Help You Lose Weight
If you’re trying to lose weight, drinking coffee may help. Coffee can increase your metabolism and help you burn more calories.
One study found that people who drank four cups of coffee per day burned more calories than those who didn’t drink coffee.
4. Coffee May Reduce Your Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a serious health condition that can lead to complications like heart disease and stroke. Coffee may help reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. One study even found that people who drank six or more cups of coffee per day had a 35% lower risk of developing the condition.
5. Coffee May Lower Your Risk of Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects older adults. Coffee may help reduce your risk of developing Parkinson’s disease.
Studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. One study even found that people who drank three or more cups of coffee per day had a 45% lower risk of developing the condition.
6. Coffee May Improve Your Physical Performance
If you’re an athlete or just enjoy working out, coffee may help improve your physical performance. Coffee can increase your adrenaline levels and make you feel more alert.
One study found that coffee improved physical performance in athletes. Another study found that coffee enhanced muscle contractions.
7. Coffee May Help Lower Your Risk of Stroke
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain is blocked or bursts. This can cause serious damage to the brain.
Coffee may help reduce your risk of suffering a stroke. Studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of suffering a stroke.
8. Coffee May Help Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Coffee may help reduce your risk of developing heart disease.
Studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing heart disease. One study even found that people who drank four or more cups of coffee per day had a 20% lower risk of developing the condition.
9. Coffee May Improve Your Mood
If you’re feeling down, a cup of coffee may help improve your mood. Coffee can increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is associated with happiness and well-being.
One study found that coffee drinkers were less likely to experience depression. Another study found that coffee improved mood and cognitive function in people with mental illness.
10. Coffee May Help You Live Longer
If you want to live a long and healthy life, drinking coffee may help. Studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of death.
One study found that people who drank two or more cups of coffee per day had a 16% lower risk of death. Another study found that coffee drinkers had a lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, and cancer.
