THE MOCHA MIRACLES

Are you a coffee lover ?

During a random pilot study, I came across two distinct groups, those who could not live without coffee and those who would not tolerate it.

Few praised it as a refreshment indulgence, while the other few dismissed it as an addiction. Being a coffee lover, I struggled to understand why anyone would hate it. To me, non-coffee drinkers seemed to be missing out on a vital experience. Driven out of curiosity, I set out to research more about the pros and cons of coffee, hoping to determine whether to hate it or love it, and whether to indulge or abstain from it. Yet, in the process, I found myself captivated by the countless miracles it offers. Intrigued, I delved deeper into its impact, uncovering both its remarkable benefits and potential drawbacks. Here’s what I discovered!!

Coffee is a beverage brewed from roasted ground coffee beans. It is slightly acidic and contains caffeine which stimulates human minds and enhances alertness. It can be enjoyed hot or cold, with or without creamer. While coffee has a naturally bitter taste, adding sugar or other sweeteners can help balance its flavor.

Everyone knows that coffee is widely known to reduce fatigue, increase alertness, and enhance mood. However it is also associated with many myths, or what we might call the “coffee paradox”, One such paradox claims that coffee increase the risk of heart attacks, but according to American Heart Association Newsroom daily coffee consumption leads to decrease in the prevalence of heart attack due its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Confused?

Let me explain, Coffee contains polyphenols, chlorogenic acid, and quinides, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, preventing damage to blood vessels and lowering the risk of atherosclerosis. Caffeine in coffee stimulates nitric oxide production hence promoting vasodilation and improving endothelial function which in turn enhances blood flow and reduces strain on the heart.

Regular coffee consumption may lower hypertension risk due to adaptation. Even decaf offers heart benefits, suggesting bioactive compounds help. Coffee improves insulin sensitivity, aiding blood sugar control and heart health. It also boosts good cholesterol (HDL) and reduces LDL oxidation, preventing artery plaque. Additionally, it regulates the nervous system, lowering heart strain and reducing arrhythmia risks.

Coffee may protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s. It blocks adenosine receptors, enhancing alertness and dopamine signaling, reducing Parkinson’s risk. Chlorogenic acid and polyphenols lower oxidative stress, inflammation, and amyloid plaque buildup, slowing Alzheimer’s. It also boosts acetylcholine and BDNF, supporting memory and neuron survival.

In 1991, the WHO's cancer agency (IARC) classified coffee as "possibly carcinogenic." This was based on limited bladder cancer evidence. However, in 2016, after reviewing 1,000 studies, experts found no link between coffee and cancer. Coffee was reclassified as "not classifiable" and even linked to reduced risks of colon, prostate, endometrial, melanoma, and liver cancer, with no harmful effects on the pancreas or female breast.

Coffee is more than just a beverage , It’s a natural elixir for overall well-being. When consumed in moderation (200-400mg of caffeine per day), it can be a powerful ally in boosting alertness, mood, and long-term health. So, whether you savor it for its rich aroma or its incredible benefits, coffee proves to be more than just a morning ritual it’s a daily dose of vitality.

Coffee haters, you're not just missing out on a bitter drink, but an entire package of health benefits.

Do give it a try !!

References:

1.     Iriondo-DeHond, A.; Uranga, J.A.; del Castillo, M.D.; Abalo, R. Effects of Coffee and Its Components on the Gastrointestinal Tract and the Brain–Gut Axis. Nutrients 2021, 13, 88. https:// doi.org/10.3390/nu13010088

2.     Abalo, R. Coffee and Caffeine Consumption for Human Health. Nutrients 2021, 13, 2918. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu13092918

3.     International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). (2016). IARC Monographs evaluate drinking coffee, mate, and very hot beverages. World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.iarc.who.int/wp-content/uploads/2018/07/pr244_E.pdf