How To Take Your Coffee
Here we are again, the endless debate: Is Coffee good or bad for me?
We have seen countless amounts of conflicting information, whether it is on your 8 o’clock news channel, a new restrictive diet trend on Facebook, advertisements from the coffee companies, or a blog trying to create a public stir… But what is the truth?
IS MY COFFEE BAD FOR ME?
With research from the American Heart Association, here are some facts on why that controversial cup of coffee can be so conflicting.
BENEFITS:
- Coffee = ENERGY! We know that caffeine can help attribute to energy levels, which can help to boost your metabolism, and improve your morning moods. The energy boost has evidence that supports a sharper focus and improved exercise performance.
- Studies have shown that coffee can lower the risk of Parkinson’s disease, Type 2 diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s.
- Habitual coffee drinking has been linked to a lower risk of coronary heart disease in women.
- Great source of antioxidants.
- Higher consumption (caffeinated or decaf) have been associated with a lower risk of total mortality, including deaths attributed to heart disease, nervous system diseases and suicide.
DRAWBACKS:
- Too much coffee can cause jitters, heart palpitations, and even insomnia, especially is consumed within 120 minutes of going to sleep.
- Withdrawal symptoms from caffeine can occur, such as headaches and sluggishness when you try to eliminate it from a regular routine.
- Unfiltered- such as drinks made with a French press- poses a risk for an increase in LDL cholesterol, as paper filters filter out cafestol which can increase your LDL’s.
- Sugar, cream, honey, milk, syrups, and other confectionary additions to your drink increase not only the calories, but also the health risks that come along with them: weight gain, increased cholesterol, hyperglycemia- increased blood sugar, hypertension, bloating, and more.
HOW TO TAKE YOUR COFFEE:
With all this information, we can conclude that the way you take your coffee, and when is critically more important than if you drink it or not.
Here’s what we can suggest on how to take your coffee:
- Paper-filtered
- Black is your best option.
- However, sparingly using natural sweeteners such as organic natural honey or agave, and almond milk or skim milk for a cool off in strength may be better alternatives to your 900 calorie specialty latte.
- Drink your cup of joe in the Morning and early afternoon so that is doesn’t affect your sleep levels.
- Monitor your heart rate and know your numbers! Beware of the heart palpitations and high blood pressure from those who already suffer from hypertension, arrhythmia and other conditions.
- Consult your doctor to see how much is too much for you.
With the knowledge of the many benefits of coffee, and using your self control to cater your morning beverage to your tastes in a mindful and healthy manner, you can go and enjoy your cup of coffee and know it can be good for you too!
