For many people, coffee is an essential morning pick-me-up. That nice jolt of caffeine first thing makes all things possible throughout your day! However, what many people don’t realize is that coffee also offers many health benefits when consumed in moderation. In honor of National Coffee Day, here are some of the biggest health benefits of drinking coffee.
Improves your energy levels and concentration
One of the biggest reasons why people enjoy drinking coffee is because it makes them feel more energetic. On rough mornings, coffee can help you perk up and be more mentally present at work. Drinking coffee throughout the day can also help you concentrate and stay focused on the task at hand. If you find your mind starting to wander at any point throughout the day, a little bit of coffee can help you get back on track.
Protects your liver
Once your liver absorbs toxins, it’s virtually impossible to undo the damage. However, drinking coffee can actually help protect your liver against cirrhosis– scarring of the liver– and other damage in the future. Coffee lowers your liver enzyme levels, which helps to protect your liver and keep it in good condition. Drinking coffee regularly can help to offset some of the damage you do to your liver by consuming alcohol and other toxins.
Minimizes post-workout soreness
Drinking coffee has been shown to minimize soreness and pain after a tough workout. Recent studies have linked coffee to a reduction in delayed onset muscle soreness, which sets in roughly a day after intense exercise. This type of muscle soreness can be very uncomfortable, particularly if you’re trying a new workout or movement. Adding coffee into your routine can improve your quality of life dramatically if you exercise regularly.
Lowers risk of serious diseases
Coffee can actually lower your risk of developing a number of chronic conditions, some of which are life-threatening. The most notable example is diabetes – just one cup of coffee each day lowers your risk for developing type II diabetes by nine percent. Coffee can also help to reduce your risk for other chronic conditions, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. There is also some evidence that drinking coffee may lower your risk of developing depression.
Improves your ability to burn fat
If you’re looking to tone up, adding some coffee to your routine may help. Studies have shown that coffee improves your metabolic rate and your ability to burn fat, regardless of body type. It’s also one of the only natural substances that has this effect.
When shopping for your coffee, make sure to look for organic and fair trade brands. Certified organic coffee isn’t grown with pesticides or any harsh chemicals that could be damaging to your health. Fairtrade products ensure that the workers involved in producing your coffee beans are treated ethically. You should also buy from local roasters to support your community and local economy. Some of the top coffee roasters in Newport Beach include Kean Coffee, Honor Coffee Roasters, and Common Room Roasters.