Are you looking for another reason to drink coffee? Coffee has been shown to have many health benefits such as helping coffee-drinkers to maintain a healthy weight, and improve their mental clarity and focus. Many of these health benefits are due to the antioxidants and nutrients found in coffee, including polyphenols, caffeine, and chlorogenic acid. Here, we’ll take a closer look at some of coffee’s most well-known health benefits:
1. Lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a severe condition that can lead to a host of other health problems, including heart disease and kidney failure. However, coffee consumption has been shown to help lower your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. One large study from a university in Amsterdam found that people who drank four or more cups of coffee daily had a 30% lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes than those who didn’t drink coffee. Always consult your doctor if you are concerned about developing type 2 diabetes.
2. Protects against Parkinson’s disease
Most people know that coffee can help improve mental clarity and focus. However, coffee may also help protect against Parkinson’s disease, a degenerative neurological disorder. Studies have shown that drinking coffee has a lower risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. While the exact mechanism is unknown, it is believed that coffee’s antioxidants may help protect the brain from damage.
3. Protects the liver
Cirrhosis of the liver is a serious condition that can lead to organ failure and death. According to a study published in the journal Hepatology, coffee consumption can help protect against this disease. The study found that people who drank four or more cups of coffee daily had an 80% lower risk of developing cirrhosis than those who didn’t drink coffee. Also, the more coffee people drank, the lower their risk was.
4. Safeguards the heart
The antioxidants in coffee may also help to protect the heart. Regarding heart health, coffee has been shown to improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels. A recent systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies found that coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk of heart failure. Also, coffee drinkers have a lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Always consult with your doctor if you have concerns about your heart health.
5. Reduces the chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease
Drinking coffee has been linked with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. This degenerative disease affects the brain, causing memory loss and cognitive decline. When researchers looked at the data from over 24 studies, they found that coffee drinkers had a 65% lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This may be because coffee helps to reduce inflammation in the brain and protects neurons from damage.
This is just a small sampling of the many health benefits of coffee. So, next time you reach for that cup of joe, remember that you’re getting a delicious beverage and doing something good for your health. Many of the health benefits of coffee are due to the antioxidants and nutrients found in coffee, so drink up and enjoy!
