ah the great coffee debate, is it friend or foe? Welp, like most things there’s not a black or with cream answer (she’s got PUNS!!). So grab yourself a cup (or not whatevs) and let’s breaaakk it down!
Caffeine: We all know what caffeine is but do we really know what caffeine IS?! (woaahh getting DEEP guys!). Okay here’s a quick sparks notes version for ya; caffeine is a natural stimulant most commonly found in coffee, tea + cacao plants. It’s magic works by blocking a neurotransmitter called adenosine that causes drowsiness by slowing down nerve cell activity in the brain. Caffeine connects to these adenosine receptors in the brain without activating them. This in turn blocks the effects of adenosine + increases the release of other neurotransmitters such as dopamine. This combination helps you feel more alert, increases your energy levels and generally aids in keeping you awake during your morning meeting after a long weekend. #thankssomuch. Studies have also shown that regular coffee drinking may slow down age related cognitive decline and reduces the risk of both Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Okay we know what caffeine is and how it works but is it GOOD for you? Yes!!! And No (hehe) . There’s been numerous studies on the positive and negative effects of caffeine so let’s start with the positives shall we?
Not only can caffeine help speed up your brain function and slow down your rate of cognitive decline but it can also help with your gym performance. When combined with exercise, caffeine can be an effective natural performance enhancer that helps you trainer harder, longer + more effectively.
Caffeine aside, coffee beans are particularly rich in several powerful antioxidants that become even more potent after roasting. These antioxidants are effective at neutralizing free radicals and preventing oxidative stress which can help everything from reducing cavities to preventing heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer
Now like a lot of things in life, there is a line that can be crossed that turns the good guy into the bad guy. When consumed in excess coffee can lead to insomnia, increased blood pressure, anxiety and some other not so fun side effects #hardpass
So what’s the final tea on coffee? Moderation + common sense! Don’t drink more than 400mg a day (about 2 strong cups) + don’t load it up with sugar and other crazy sh*t that you can’t pronounce!! Because let me tell ya, your Starbucks caramel frappuccino is NOT going to combat type 2 diabetes (although it’ll most likely enhance it!) and it’s not because of the coffee in it!
I love to drink my coffee with collagen, assorted nut milks + a splash of my fav creamer ! How do you like your morning cup(s)?!
Cheers!
xoxo
Amanda