Is Coffee An Antioxidant? Antioxidant Power of Coffee You Didn't Know

The Powerful Scoop of Coffee Beans  

Ultimately, there is no better way to start your day than with a morning cup of coffee. After all, coffee is known to have a "wake-up" effect on our bodies. It boosts our mental focus, stimulates physical energy, and enables us to lead a productive day.      

A cup of coffee can also improve one's metabolism and ward off negative emotions. Thus, having a glorious sip of coffee is essential to one's routine.      

In addition to that, drinking a daily cup of coffee is not just a powerful morning boost. Contrary to what many people say, a coffee beverage is also packed with a handful of nutrients and antioxidants. Coffee is ranked as the # 1 source of antioxidants in American diets. 

This is in comparison with other foods or beverages. It is based on the statistic that American adults consume five hundred million cups of coffee daily. Moreover, experts believe that drinking coffee can improve brain function, promote a healthy heart, and contribute to longevity.   

Of course, to maximize the benefits of coffee, it is recommended to consume it moderately and in the recommended amounts.  

Several research studies have proven that coffee beans are a powerful tool for health and wellness. To date, coffee contains about six (6) antioxidants.

Moreover, numerous potential health benefits are associated with drinking coffee daily. It can lessen one's risk of contracting specific illnesses and diseases. The benefits vary depending on what coffee one incorporates into one's daily routine.

Now, let's examine the various antioxidants in coffee in more detail. While we're at it, let's name six of them and a couple of other nutrients.

Let's also discuss how you can enhance its "healthful" effects. In line with that, we will also discuss the health benefits a cup of coffee can provide our bodies.

The Six Antioxidants in Coffee

In 2005, the American Cocoa Association (ACA) conducted a study on coffee. The results revealed that coffee contains not one but six antioxidants. 

1. Cafestol

   Cafestol is typically extracted from coffee beans. It is also known as coffee oil because this diterpene is naturally present in both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee. Several research studies have shown that cafestol can help metabolize and regulate body cholesterol.

   Moreover, cafestol can modulate the intestine. Its anti-inflammatory content can also improve memory and brain functions.

2. Trigonelline 

   Trigonelline is largely responsible for the coffee's bitter taste and strong aroma. Apart from this, it is also rich in anti-bacterial components that may help alleviate dental problems. On a side note, coffee contains more trigonelline than green tea does. Specifically, you can obtain more of this benefit by drinking Arabica coffee instead of Robusta coffee.

   This compound degrades instantly when roasted to form nicotinic acid and pyridines. Thus, the lighter the roast, the more Trigonelline content is left.

   Simply put, it is the base formed in the seeds of most plants. In this case, it is with coffee beans. For its benefits, trigonelline is said to have anti-inflammatory, anti-pathogenic, and antioxidant properties.

3. Chlorogenic Acids

   Chlorogenic acid (CGA) is a phenolic compound found in coffee beans. It is the "core player" in coffee's antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

   As such, it contains numerous health benefits, including aiding in weight loss, regulating blood pressure, lowering blood sugar levels, improving overall mood, and supporting the body's immune system in fighting infections.

   Chlorogenic acid is rich in anti-diabetic and anti-carcinogenic components. It may be a good option for a non-pharmacological and non-invasive approach to treating and preventing chronic diseases. It is a natural and effective medicine for the body. Whether caffeinated or decaffeinated, chlorogenic acid is abundant in coffee.

4. Menaloidins 

   Menaloidins are brown nitrogen-rich polymers resulting from the roasting process of coffee. That's why megalodons are one of the factors that make up coffee's unique aroma. It comprises up to 25% of coffee, which may still increase when the coffee beans undergo a more extreme roasting process.

   This compound is also known to generate several beneficial health properties. In addition to its antioxidant compounds, it also exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can also contribute to the body's antihypertensive and prebiotic activities.

5. Quinine 

   One of the most appealing descriptions of coffee is its bitter yet flavorful taste. The compound responsible for this is quinine. As such, the bitter taste of coffee beans can be adjusted accordingly by increasing or reducing the quinine content. This compound is so powerful that it is one of the main sources of antioxidant properties in coffee. It provides your body with an antioxidant therapy to help replenish cellular function and enhance overall well-being.

   Quinine has several body-healing properties. For one, it can be used as a natural treatment for malaria, a disease transmitted by mosquitoes. It can also alleviate the symptoms of leg cramps, vascular spasms, and varicose veins. What's more, it can help cure serious health complications such as internal hemorrhoids and associated febrile states.

6. Caffeine 

   Caffeine is one of the most powerful antioxidants. While it is often viewed as negative, it has many positive effects on our bodies. For one, it helps the body process glucose (also known as sugar) more effectively. It is also said to be good for the liver.

   Moreover, caffeine has been shown to have health benefits for the heart. As such, it can help lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, commonly known as heart disease. Additionally, since it can boost energy levels, it enables you to exercise daily or engage in vigorous activity throughout the day. After all, regular physical activity is one way to keep your heart healthy - am I right?

   Caffeine consumption should be limited to up to 400 milligrams per day. This is the safety standard for all adults drinking coffee. Still, the number may vary depending on people's sensitivity to caffeine.

   Ways to Boost Antioxidants and Vitamins in Coffee

   

• Sprinkle it up with some Cinnamon.

  Let's get started by sprinkling some cinnamon into your cup of coffee. This will significantly improve the bitter taste of coffee to something more palatable. Not only that, but a sprinkle of cinnamon can also boost the nutritional content of your coffee. It can help diabetics lower their blood glucose, body cholesterol, and triglycerides. Plus, it can even aid a healthy weight loss diet!

  According to various studies, cinnamon can also help maintain a healthy heart and a highly functional brain. Strengthening the immune system can also help reduce the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.

  You don't need to add sugar or any other artificial sweetener to enjoy a sweet-tasting coffee in the morning. Still, only add moderate amounts of cinnamon to your coffee. Add cinnamon in a generous pinch or 1/4 teaspoon to ensure you are not exceeding the recommended amount.

• Ginger up your Coffee

  Want to add some extra spice and aromatic blend to your coffee? Then, let go of your regular coffee and add some ginger to reap many health benefits. One of its primary benefits is that it can help aid the digestion process. With that said, it can reduce heartburn or acid in the stomach.

  As a result, it can decrease congestion and the risk of constipation. It also helps relax the digestive system and alleviate joint pain. Moreover, it can help cure skin irritation or rashes.

  Additionally, ginger is a natural medicine for nausea. It is a good source of antioxidants and contains anti-inflammatory compounds.

  Adding ginger to your daily coffee intake will replenish your body with many health benefits. Sprinkle up to one teaspoon of ginger directly into your cup of coffee.

• Boost it more with Mushrooms.

  You've probably never heard of this combination, but you must try it! A mushroom-filled brew can fill your regular coffee with many health benefits. Not only is a mushroom an antioxidant, but it also contains antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Additionally, it can also boost and strengthen one's immune system and aid in the digestion process.

  Moreover, its prebiotic components can help reduce the risk of liver disease. Since mushrooms are a low-calorie source of fiber, they can be a good option for people trying to shed a few pounds. Plus, they're a good source of protein, too!

  Adding mushrooms to your coffee creates a delicate blend of coffee extract and beans. This makes for a good sip of coffee that will instantly make your day.

• Add a dose of Turmeric.

  Adding turmeric to your coffee is also a good way to enhance its flavor. It combines a gentle, warm flavor with a pleasant scent of turmeric and coffee. Of course, it's not just about that. But be careful not to add too much. Otherwise, it might overpower the coffee's natural bitterness.

  Furthermore, turmeric can also provide numerous health benefits to the body. First, it is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. Additionally, it helps improve the digestion process, boosting metabolism and supporting weight loss. It can also detoxify the liver and manage cholesterol levels.

  Since turmeric contains curcumin, it is also rich in anti-inflammatory compounds. Additionally, scientific studies have shown that turmeric can help alleviate symptoms of depression and arthritis.

  To maximize the health benefits of turmeric, consider adding healthy fats like coconut milk as well. Moreover, you can also sprinkle a pinch of black pepper while you're at it.

• Balance it with Maca.

  Why don't you consider buying some maca powder as well and adding it to your coffee? Maca powder is made from roasted maca root. Adding it to your coffee will give it a more creamy, nutty texture and a good aroma!

  Maca powder is abundant in elevated levels of iron and iodine. This is what enables the powder to support the health of your body cells. Moreover, it can also aid digestion due to its high potassium content. As a side effect, it can also boost your body's metabolism. It is also packed with vitamins, minerals, and a variety of essential nutrients, including calcium and amino acids. All in all, it contains a total of 20 amino acids and 20 free-form fatty acids.

  However nutritious it may be, it should still be consumed moderately. At most, you should only consume one to three teaspoons of maca every day.

The Health Benefits of Coffee 

• Works Against Cognitive Decline

  To reiterate, coffee can improve brain activity and memory. It may also work against cognitive declines such as Alzheimer’s disease and certain types of dementia. This is because caffeine interferes with the buildup of beta-amyloid plaque, which is usually the "progressive" start of Alzheimer’s.

  Moreover, since coffee is proven to have anti-diabetic properties, it offers a reduced risk of developing dementia. This is because various research studies show that dementia is heavily associated with diabetes.

• Reduced Risk for Type 2 Diabetes

  As mentioned above, drinking coffee can help reduce the risk of diabetes. Some components of coffee help use insulin and protect the insulin-generating cells, ultimately allowing for healthy blood sugar regulation. Moreover, coffee can help heal and prevent tissue damage. It is also a powerful drink that can combat inflammation in the body.

  Interestingly, coffee's caffeic acid effectively reduces the abnormal buildup of protein deposits, also known as amyloid fibrils, in individuals with type 2 diabetes.

• Boosts Exercise Performance

  Contrary to popular belief, coffee is a very hydrating beverage, making it a suitable choice for both pre- and post-workout drinks. Moreover, coffee can help alleviate muscle fatigue, allowing your body to exercise more.

  Caffeine can enhance body performance and endurance. It alleviates fatigue symptoms and strengthens muscle contractions, enhancing one's ability to handle pain. Additionally, it increases the number of fatty acids in one's blood, indicating that coffee also supports endurance.

• Lessens Risk for Cancers

  The components found in coffee, namely Polyphenols and antioxidant phytochemicals, are rich in anticarcinogenic properties. Hence, drinking coffee can help lessen the risk of certain types of cancer, such as endometrial cancer for women and prostate cancer for men. Moreover, it can lower one's risk of liver, breast, rectal, and colon cancer.

  Additionally, since coffee also has anti-inflammatory properties, it may intervene in the development of tumors, which could later lead to cancer.

• Helps Produce "Happy" Hormones

  Various research studies attest that coffee can indeed help curb depression and other negative emotions. This is because caffeine activates neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Together with endorphins and oxytocin, these neurotransmitters regulate mood and are sometimes referred to as "happy" hormones.

  As a result, drinking coffee is heavily associated with a lower risk for depression and other negative emotions. Take, for example, how your daily cup of coffee can immediately make your day.

Should You Add Coffee to Your Daily Routine?

Indeed, coffee is a powerful drink. Who would've thought that this bitter yet delicate tasting, with a unique aroma, drink reeks of so many health benefits? In fact, with just one glorious sip, you will be fully charged to accomplish your to-do tasks throughout the day as soon as you wake up.   

As such, it will instantly stimulate your physical energy and boost your mental sharpness, enabling you to lead an incredibly productive day.

In line with that, Berkey water filters are the perfect tool for making your daily dose of coffee. These portable filters allow you to blend your coffee with filtered water.  

So, should you add coffee to your routine? Despite its many benefits, it depends on your preference, your body's sensitivity to caffeine, and your present health condition.

Yes, coffee is a good source of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, but it is not the only drink that provides these nutrients.       

If coffee does not appeal to you, you can explore other healthy drinks that offer as many health benefits.           

---

← Older Post Newer Post →