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If you were to ask my family what’s one thing I absolutely can’t live without, they would all shout, “coffee!” Sure, I enjoy my snacks, a glass of wine, and binge-watching shows late at night, but if there was ever an apocalypse and we were on the run from zombies, I could forgo wine and chips without a second thought. But I can assure you, even while sprinting from brain-hungry zombies, I’d still be lamenting the lack of my morning coffee.
Coffee is my lifeblood, and I would never consider giving it up—well, after snacks and chocolate. Just keep that hot cup of coffee coming, and I’ll be alright.
So, discovering that coffee comes with health benefits is music to my ears, especially since I practically live on the stuff each day. A recent study highlighted by The New York Times in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of various ailments, including Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers.
Moreover, as noted by Johns Hopkins Medicine, coffee might also protect against a condition that affects many women: Alzheimer’s disease. “Approximately two-thirds of the Americans with Alzheimer’s are women,” the article explains. “However, drinking two cups of coffee per day may significantly reduce the risk of developing this condition.” Research indicates that women aged 65 and older who consume two to three cups daily may lower their chances of dementia.
But coffee doesn’t just help fend off diseases; it can also help you live longer. In a study involving over 200,000 participants tracked for up to 30 years, those who drank three to five cups of coffee a day were found to have a 15% lower risk of early death from all causes compared to those who abstained from coffee, as reported by The New York Times. The findings are echoed by Johns Hopkins Medicine, which stated that coffee drinkers are less likely to die from leading causes of death in women, including coronary heart disease and stroke.
So, on those long days when you feel like “coffee is literally keeping me alive,” you might just be onto something! What a victory, right?
Additionally, coffee contains beneficial compounds like polyphenols and antioxidants that positively impact health. Polyphenols may hinder the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes, while antioxidants can mitigate inflammation, countering heart disease and cancer, the leading killers in the U.S.
Cleveland Clinic points out that coffee is also rich in nutrients, such as B vitamins, potassium, and riboflavin. In fact, Andrea Dunn, RD, highlights that “coffee is surprisingly the single best source of antioxidants in the American diet.” Yessssss to antioxidants and coffee beans!
While this news is exciting, experts remind us that coffee shouldn’t be viewed as a cure-all. We should prioritize proven health practices like eating well, staying hydrated, exercising, getting enough sleep, avoiding smoking, and having regular check-ups.
The study in the New England Journal of Medicine shifts the narrative from past warnings about coffee being unhealthy to a more positive view for coffee lovers.
However, excessive caffeine can pose risks, especially during pregnancy, as it crosses the placenta and can lead to complications. Therefore, many doctors suggest pregnant women limit caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day or switch to decaf. Personally, I opted for the latter and still enjoyed a cup or two while pregnant, and my babies turned out just fine!
It’s essential to consume coffee in moderation and complement it with a balanced diet and adequate hydration. I remember my 20s, when I relied on coffee for energy while working long shifts, which was far from healthy.
When experts say “there are health benefits to coffee,” they mean in moderation. And yes, sleep is crucial. It’s not always easy, especially as a mom, but prioritizing rest is key to being part of the “healthy coffee drinkers club.” Now that my kids sleep through the night, I start each day with coffee (or two or three, depending on how life goes), and I also make an effort to hydrate and eat healthier.
I’m aware that the flavored creamers I love—like the coconut cream pie variety—aren’t the healthiest options, but they bring me joy, and you’ll have to pry them from my cold, dead hands!
So, here’s to the health benefits of coffee that may help fend off depression and various diseases! I think it’s time for another cup right now—ahh, I can feel those health benefits already!
If you’re interested in more information about home insemination, check out our other blog post here. It’s essential to stay informed about your health and wellness choices. For those considering home insemination, Make A Mom is a great resource. Additionally, Mount Sinai offers excellent information on infertility resources.
Summary:
Coffee is not only a beloved daily ritual for many but also offers numerous health benefits. Studies show that it can reduce the risk of various diseases and even promote longevity. While moderation is key, enjoying your coffee as part of a balanced lifestyle can be a positive choice. Embrace your coffee habit and relish its potential health perks!
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