All week we are drinking an extra cup of joe in honor of International Coffee Day.

Let’s celebrate the wonders of coffee. From its enticing aroma, the alluring ritual of that first perfect cup, as well as the process of growing and distributing coffee, to the myriad health perks associated with drinking this marvelous bean, there are so many reasons to relish in the bountiful benefits of coffee.

Here are my top 5 benefits of drinking coffee:

1. Coffee is rich in antioxidants. These phytonutrients/antioxidants, hydrocinnamic acids and polyphenols, have been shown to prevent oxidative stress and reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.
2. Coffee may protect the brain against cognitive decline and improve short-term memory.
3. Studies indicate that coffee consumption may support heart health, if consumed in moderation.
4. Coffee gives you more pep during physical activity. Studies have shown that coffee may enhance endurance and circulation during a workout.
5. Coffee consumption is linked to a longer life-span.

What counts as coffee? Drip, French press, Americano, espresso, and cappuccino with plant-based milk.

When it comes to enjoying coffee, it is best to keep it around 2, 8oz cups a day. This will boost your alertness and increase circulation.

Going over the 6 cups per day is considered possibly risky for some individuals who are prone to anxiety and other physical conditions.

Also, I encourage you to avoid drinking coffee late in the day, so the caffeine consumption does not interfere with your quality of sleep. A good option in place of the extra cups of coffee or the late afternoon caffeine rush is water-processed decaf, matcha (a form of powdered green tea), or hot herbal/green tea.

It’s also important to note that culture plays a role in when and how people enjoy coffee. Many European and Latin American cultures drink coffee during the day and into the evening without any worry of sleep issues. Dietitian Sandy grew up drinking café con leche right before bed, when she stayed with her grandma (abuelita). So, keep in mind we are all different and it’s best to know your limits when it comes to coffee and caffeine consumption, in general.

Are you a coffee lover or a coffee connoisseur? If you would like to share why you like coffee, or you have more benefits to add to our list, please share in the comments below.

Cheers!

Live, Life, Healthy

Dietitian Sandy, InVita Wellness
and Jentry Lee, Intern

References

https://www.internationalcoffeeday.org/about

https://www.onemedical.com/blog/newsworthy/10-healthy-reasons-to-drink-coffee-2/

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coffee-worlds-biggest-source-of-antioxidants#antioxidants

https://unsplash.com/s/photos/coffee