Coffee may be more beneficial than we think. Though it’s a controversial beverage among nutritional experts, a cup of joe does have a few proven perks. With National Coffee Day on Sept. 29th, it may be time to celebrate. Consider these tips on why drinking coffee may be good for you.
It improves cardiovascular health
Researchers from Harvard’s School of Public Health conducted a study on coffee and mortality. They discovered that participants with cardiovascular disease who drank coffee had a lower risk of mortality than patients who didn’t drink the beverage. This may be positive among senior communities, as older adults have a much higher risk of cardiovascular disease. A report from the American Heart Association in 2013 stated that 42.2 million adults 60 and older in America have a type of the disease.
Smelling coffee may lessen stress
Apparently, even the smell of coffee has benefits. Researchers from Seoul National University studied the brains of rats who were agitated from sleep deprivation. They discovered that the rats who smelled coffee aromas had changes in brain proteins associated to the stress. Be mindful that this study proved stress related to sleep lessened – not stress in general.
Coffee can alleviate Parkinson’s Disease symptoms
Coffee may help with senior care for those with Parkinson’s. A 2012 study from McGill University found that caffeine can help control movements of people with Parkinson’s. The researchers noted that, while studies in the past have proven that caffeine ingestion can prevent getting Parkinson’s, their study was the first to find benefits after developing the disease.
It contains antioxidants
Though it’s an unseen source, coffee contains more antioxidants than anything else. Several studies have proven that coffee has more antioxidants than any type of fruit or vegetable on the market. Antioxidants have many beneficial effects for people, such as promoting good cardiovascular health and protecting cells.
Coffee lessens the risk of Type 2 diabetes
Researchers also found that coffee may prevent the development of Type 2 diabetes in avid coffee drinkers. A 2012 study found that people who drink four or more cups of coffee per day are 50 percent less likely to develop Type 2 diabetes. The coffee contains two compounds that block a substance known to cause the condition.
Well coffee drinkers, you may be in luck. Grab a K-cup or the coffee grinder and test out these health benefits for yourself.