The Health Benefits of Coffee

Coffee is undoubtedly one of the most consumed beverages in the world with almost 500 billion cups consumed annually. Coffee offers an array of different health benefits, one of the most common being an increase in energy. According to a variety of different sources, the benefits of coffee are truly astounding in its ability to mitigate certain pervasive ailments. Notably, we recognize that coffee is absolutely not a cure-all, but we found the research surrounding the medical benefits of coffee to be interesting nonetheless. An article published by the New York Times suggested that coffee can help decrease chances of developing Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, gall stones, depression, suicide, cirrhosis, liver cancer, melanoma and prostate cancer. In a study conducted by Circulation Journal in 2015 of more than 200,000 participants that were monitored for 30 years, drinking 3-5 cups of coffee a day, 15% were less likely to die early from all causes than were people who shunned coffee. 

The most dramatic note from this New York Times article was the 50% reduction in the risk of suicide. While this claim raises an eyebrow, it is undeniable that coffee does increase mood. We’re all familiar with those post-coffee jitters. This further suggests that there exists a parallel between coffee and the production of brain-boosting chemicals similar to that of an antidepressant. Recent studies also demonstrate that among habitual and moderate coffee drinkers (individuals who consume 2-3 cups per day), the risk of developing Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases is significantly lower than in non-coffee drinkers. 

Additionally, coffee contains polyphenols and antioxidants. According to a variety of different studies, polyphenols can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes. As for antioxidants, chances are, you’ve probably heard of the term before. It's been quite the buzzword on social media and amongst health-nuts. Antioxidants are naturally occurring substances that may protect your body against free radicals. Antioxidants also have anti-inflammatory properties which combat the risk of heart disease and cancer. The coupling of both these naturally occurring superfoods in your coffee might be enough to entice you into that additional cup. 

We also did some follow-up research with the John Hopkins Centre for Medicine to see what their thought was on your daily cup of joe. According to studies conducted by their institution, drinking coffee produces an array of different benefits. We’ve taken the liberty of condensing their findings. Through research they found that coffee can help you live longer, process glucose better, act as filtration for your liver, decrease odds of colon cancer and minimize your chances of having a stroke.

While coffee contains an array of different benefits, it is important to note the possible side effects that coffee can have on your body. In consuming coffee, one should be cognizant of their own predisposition to anxiety. For some, those jitters are enough to deter one completely from coffee. Sometimes, coffee can exacerbate an already existing anxious tendency. Also, physicians have advised individuals who suffer from sleep abnormalities to avoid an excessive amount of coffee, especially during the evening hours. One can still reap the benefits of coffee by simply drinking one or two cups instead of 3-4. Alternatively, decaf coffee can offer health benefits without the effects of caffeine. In awareness of your predisposition, sticking to 1-2 cups might work best for you and your body. 

Here’s the bottom line:

After years of coffee being put on the “no-go” list and allegedly being associated with carcinogens and cancer, studies have now dismantled this misleading and inherently false narrative. However, every person is unique in their ability to metabolize caffeine. Whether you’re consuming coffee throughout the day, or can only handle that morning cup, you’re still reaping the benefits of coffee. Moderate consumption of caffeine may be ideal for some, while others may be able to handle more. You’ll find that catering your coffee intake in accordance with your bodies’ needs is indubitably the happy medium. 

Wherever you fall on the spectrum of coffee drinkers, we’ve got a coffee that fits your needs. At transcend, we offer full-caffeinated coffee, half-caf, and decaf. Ask your Barista for more details!

 So, if you weren’t convinced to grab a cup before, come grab one now!