Coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the entire world. An estimated 2 billion cups of coffee are consumed around the world everyday! Brazil remains the top global exporter of coffee in the world today.
Fun fact: Did you know coffee is the #1 most abundant antioxidant in the American diet. Coffee contains more antioxidants than most fruits and vegetables!
Let’s examine just a handful of profound evidence based benefits that coffee brings to the table.
1. Coffee increases exercise performance and strength – An average cup of coffee boasts around 125mg of caffeine per serving. Caffeine is a natural stimulant that enhances the central nervous system which is an essential piece of power, speed, and strength in athletic performance. A 2015 study found a slight increase in strength and power following the consumption of caffeine or coffee as compared to placebo.
2. Coffee increases fat oxidation and metabolism – Caffeine increases core body temperature which inturn increases total daily energy expenditure. A 1980 study found a 29% increase in fat oxidation in lean individuals. Caffeine has also been shown to suppress appetite which in turn can play a role in decreased energy consumption. For clarification, this is black coffee and unsweetened caffeine beverages, when adding fat & sugar, don’t expect weight loss as compared to straight coffee or tea.
3. Coffee reduces the risks of aging – A 2012 study found an association of coffee and health span, stating that 1 cup of coffee a day was associated with 5% longer lifespan. A 2008 study found an overall decrease in all cause mortality (Cardiovascular, Diabetes, Dementia, etc) in association with coffee consumption.
4. Coffee can reduce the risk of dementia – Many observational studies over the past few decades have shown a low association with parkinson’s disease and dementia with those who consume coffee and tea. Caffeine has also been shown to increase mood, memory, and vigilance!
5. Coffee can reduce risk of type 2 diabetes – A meta analysis conducted in 2009 found that consumption of coffee and tea reduced the risk of diabetes by 7%! Observational studies have shown that consuming coffee and or tea has been shown to reduce risk upwards of 50%!