What are the good and bad health effects of coffee?

Is coffee good or bad? – The health effects of coffee have been a point of controversy since the 1970s.

Several studies have linked coffee to improved health and several studies have linked it to increased heart disease. So, what’s the truth?

Drinking coffee regularly in moderation does have many potential upsides. Many observational studies have found that people who drink coffee regularly tend to have a lower risk of diabetes, stroke, heart disease, cancer, and dementia. Recent studies have also found that regular coffee can increase overall mortality. 

However, coffee may not suit everyone. Some people experience aggravated gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms. This can result in heartburn or stomach upset. Excess intake of coffee can also result in anxiety, sleep problems, and palpitations. In such people, coffee withdrawal can result in headaches, fatigue, and irritability.

The good and bad health effects of coffee 

Let’s talk about the benefits first!

Many people cannot just start without their morning cup of joe. Coffee helps in awakening the senses, lifting their mood, boosting energy, and increasing alertness which results in improved performance. Apart from this, there are several research-backed benefits of this drink.

A perfect pre-workout drink

Sports nutritionists often recommend coffee as a pre-workout drink. Many gymgoers also gulp a cup of black coffee before their gym session. Experts say that black coffee helps in stimulating the central nervous system. It reduces fatigue during workouts and improves your performance and stamina. Drink your black coffee 30-60 minutes before the workout.

Increases your alertness

Coffee helps in increasing your alertness and boosting your performance. It helps in blocking the action of adenosine. Studies have shown that caffeine helps in increasing the firing of neurons in the brain. It also boosts dopamine and acetylcholine stimulation in the brain.

Coffee curbs depression

Coffee is very rich in antioxidants. It further helps in activating dopamine and serotonin neurotransmitters. These hormones help in regulating your mood. A few studies show that coffee can decrease the risk of depression by 20%.

Coffee Lowers the risk of cognitive diseases

Several studies have shown that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. It also helps in lowering the risk of Parkinson’s disease which is caused by the death of dopamine-generating neurons in the brain.

Coffee can decrease the risk of Heart diseases

Studies say drinking four or more cups of coffee each day can reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease by 20%. Moderate consumption of coffee which is about 3 to 5 cups in a day can reduce the risk of many cardiovascular diseases.

While all this is good about coffee, let’s look at the other side too

Coffee is acidic

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach might cause acidity. Also, people with gastric issues can experience aggravated heartburn or gastritis after drinking coffee. It can also curb your appetite and make you feel nauseated.

Too much is too bad

I have met many people whose coffee intake increases with the increase in stress. But this is very detrimental to your health. Excessive caffeine intake can increase your blood pressure, cause insomnia and make you more anxious.

Are you gulping sugar?

If you like your coffee sweet, then forget the benefits. The added sugar can cause a lot of damage to your health. It increases your risk of obesity, diabetes, and several other diseases.

Check during pregnancy

Pregnant women are recommended not to take coffee during pregnancy. Too much caffeine intake can increase the risk of anxiety and panic attacks. It can further disrupt your sleep and affect the child. Some studies say that excess intake of coffee can result in stillbirth or miscarriage. 

Caffeine is Addictive 

Coffee is addictive and skipping your cup of joe can result in withdrawal symptoms. Many people report headaches, exhaustion, brain fog, and irritability when they miss their morning joe.

Your Takeaway – Health effects of coffee

As I always say, listen to your body and act accordingly. For some, it may work wonders and for some, it may just cause more trouble than good. Notice how your body responds to coffee and always have it in moderation.