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Coffee, are there really benefits?

Admin
Mar 16, 2017
3 min read

When I first think about this question, my snarky humor leads me to the answer, the true benefit of coffee is I am a better human-being after I drink my black drink. Somehow, I am transformed from a stumbling zombie to a super power wife and momma! My central nervous system thanks me, and so does my family. But moving beyond my humor is facts. There are cons to drinking coffee, but I want to outline the benefits because of the life-stage I find myself in and the constant hit it takes from many sites and “diets”.

As always, please pause. I am in NO WAY stating drinking unlimited amounts of coffee is beneficial or if you do not currently drink coffee, you should start. Moderation is always recommended.

Disclaimers disclaimed, I feel ok to proceed.

Benefit 1- antioxidants

Coffee in the morning does not only provide you a hefty jolt of energy from caffeine, but it also provides a source of antioxidants, one of the better sources in the American diet. Now, regarding the American diet, there are definitely better sources of antioxidants then the morning cup of jo, but getting the masses to drool over and scarf down blueberries in the same manner you do a cup of coffee, is utterly impossible.

Benefit 2- appetite depressant

Yes, it is true, coffee curbs your appetite. How so? Caffeine is a known appetite suppressant, and coffee contains its fair share of caffeine. Now, drinking coffee alone will not cause the scale to drop tremendously. Coffee itself is not a “weight loss” effort. But if timed correctly and used appropriately, it can help to curb cravings for a short period of time. Mind you, it can also negate ALL weight loss efforts you are making if doused down with lots of sugar and cream. In my husband’s words, “frou-frou”. I will leave you some tips at the end for making a cup of coffee delicious without being disastrous to your waistline!

Benefit 3- mental clarity

Focusing once again on the caffeine content of coffee, caffeine acts as a mild stimulant to the central nervous system. According to the article, Effects of caffeine on human behavior, “caffeine increases alertness and reduces fatigue.”

Again, with all the benefits listed, please remember, ultimately caffeine is a substance we can become addicted to very easily. The definition of addition is, a compulsive physiological need for and use of habit-forming substance, characterized by a tolerance and by well-defined physiological symptoms upon withdrawal (Merriam Webster dictionary). As Americans, we definitely have become addicted to caffeine to manage our daily grind. We cannot sleep at night, so we take medication to sleep. We cannot wake in the morning, so we drink caffeine, in excess more times than not. Also, there are many medical conditions in which coffee and caffeine is not recommended. Looking at the pros and cons, I encourage, if you do drink the black drink, be sure to do so in MODERATION. Mayo clinic states up to 400milligrams is safe for most healthy adults, which is equivalent to four cups of brewed coffee. But from a dietitian standpoint I strongly encourage moderation being 1-2 brewed cups, (cups of coffee is 6oz, not 8oz). I also do not recommend coffee under the age of 18, for many reasons.

Tips for enjoying a cup of coffee without hurting your nutrition plan:

Sweet treat. Adding a protein powder & unsweetened almond coconut milk. Pour coffee into cup, add ½ -1 scoop of powder, whisk until smooth. I have a tiny whisk, fits perfectly in my cup. You can also use a blender bottle to be sure it is mixed well. Adding nut milk to cup after coffee and protein have become one!

Froth. Pour ¼ cup skim milk into blender bottle. Shake vigorously. Pour on top of coffee. Add cinnamon and nutmeg for a little spice!

Again, be sure to note, there is arguments on both sides of the fence regarding coffee consumption. It is easy to find articles for either side you find yourself standing. Do your own research, and make an educated opinion. DO not just listen to me or someone else.

It is YOUR health and body.

Make an educated decision.