The Surprising Benefits of Coffee You Didn't Know About

As one of the most popular beverages on the planet, experts estimate that around 400 billion cups of coffee are consumed every year. Although many people use coffee as a daily stimulant, they often do not know about the health benefits they receive from a cup filled with this aromatic beverage. On the opposite side, many have heard about the harmful effects of coffee – a myth that scientists finally put to rest several years ago. A 2008 study by the Harvard School of Public Health found that men and women who drink up to six cups of coffee a day do not increase their risk of illness or premature death.

The active compounds in coffee not only neutralize free radicals, but also work to eliminate the damage they cause. In fact, research shows that coffee may reduce the risk of colon cancer, breast cancer and liver cancer. In addition, it significantly lowers the risk of developing cirrhosis. Coffee also improves heart health, reduces the risk of Parkinson's disease and improves brain function, as caffeine stimulates the production of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. It has even been shown to play a role in combating type 2 diabetes.

The benefits of coffee depend on where the beans are grown and harvested, as well as on how the coffee is prepared. It is a low-calorie beverage (before adding cream or sugar), containing only about two calories per cup. Keep in mind that you should carefully choose the coffee brands you consume. Some packages filled with aromatic beans also contain excessive amounts of harmful sugars, fats and artificial flavors. In some regions where coffee is grown, it is heavily treated with pesticides, which can also be harmful to health. One little-known fact is that caffeinated and decaffeinated versions of coffee have almost identical health benefits.

• Improves mood and reduces the overall risk of depression and suicide
• Improves brain function in terms of mood, reflexes and memory
• Protects against diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and other neurodegenerative disorders
• Improves symptoms of Parkinson's disease, helping with movement control
• Reduces the risk of liver damage and helps fight cirrhosis
• Helps prevent atherosclerosis (blocked arteries), reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke
• May reduce the risk of tinnitus in women, the risk of skin cancer, as well as erectile dysfunction in men

Of course, if you have stomach problems, the acidic nature of coffee may worsen your symptoms. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as well as people with uncontrolled high blood pressure, should limit their daily caffeine intake.

Source: profit.bg