Black Coffee – Health Benefits

For most people the unmistakable smell and delicious taste are the main reasons to get themselves out of bed in the morning. Some consider it to be “a gift from heaven”, while others think it’s just another vice. But, what does science say about coffee? Should we enjoy our favorite Nespresso at home and a cup of gourmet coffee in the nearby cafe? Besides the fact that it has addictive flavor and eye-opening abilities, black coffee has many hidden health benefits.

It strengthens cardiovascular system. If you’re serious about your health in general, you must be aware of the importance of a healthy cardiovascular system. But, did you know that drinking one or two cups of black coffee a day can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In fact, according to one Japanese medical study, by consuming one or two cups of coffee per day people reduce their risk of dying from cardiovascular diseases by more than 35%. Nevertheless, this doesn’t mean you don’t have to do your cardio training, though.

Coffee reduces the risk of Type 2 Diabetes. Harvard researchers discovered in a study between 1986 and 1988 that long-term black coffee drinkers significantly reduced the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Of course, you should limit your sugar or, even better; have your black coffee without sugar at all.

It has pain relieving properties. In Norway, researchers observed a group of people performing office work and realized that those who consumed black coffee only declared a pain-intensity level 40/100, while participants who did not drink any coffee reported the pain-intensity score of 55/100. Clearly, there’s every reason to have that coffee break at least once a day!

Caffeine boosts physical performance. Having a cup of black coffee approximately an hour before workout can improve physical performance by 11%. This is because caffeine increases blood levels of adrenaline, a hormone which prepares us for physical exertion.

It boosts weight loss. Coffee contains potassium and magnesium and these elements help our body use insulin, therefore, regulate blood sugar levels and reduce craving for snacks and sweets. In addition, there’s caffeine, a molecule that helps breaking down body fat and using it as fuel for training.

It helps stay alert and focus. Moderate caffeine intake improves mental alertness and helps people focus. Drinking coffee also reduces the risk of dementia and Alzheimer disease.

Coffee can reduce the risk of cancer. Several studies have shown that coffee can lower the risk of developing endometrial cancer by 25% and prostate cancer by 20%. Also, drinking a few cups of coffee a day may also prevent the most common skin cancer type, basal cell carcinoma.

It contains important nutrients. Since coffee contains a lot of antioxidants, this beverage can protect your body against free radicals. In addition, it contains (above mentioned) Potassium and Magnesium, as well as Manganese, Niacin, Pantothenic Acid and Riboflavin. In only 2 calories!

Caffeine brightens the mood. By stimulating central nervous system and boosting production of serotonin, noradrenaline and dopamine, caffeine can elevate your mood, fight depression and lower the risk of suicide.

Obviously, there are many health benefits of drinking black coffee on a regular basis and we have mentioned only the most important ones! Of course, adding sugar, creamer and milk can ruin some of its positive effects, so be moderate when adding them to your favorite beverage!