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Is it Healthy to Drink Black Coffee?
No matter if it’s morning jitters, exam stress, or writing that great American novel in a cafe – nothing beats a warm cup of coffee as an effective pick-me-up! Black coffee may be an everyday go-to, but its benefits go well beyond its caffeine fix. Packed full of essential nutrients and antioxidants such as vitamins B2, riboflavin and niacin for overall wellbeing, black coffee should not only be enjoyed but should be seen as part of a healthy lifestyle! Coffee contains polyphenols that have been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes, but how you enjoy your brew can make a significant difference to its nutritional value. Swapping out sugar for low-calorie sweeteners or selecting healthier creamers may help maximize its potential benefits.
Are You an Avid Coffee Drinker? Good News! Drinking black coffee may be healthier than you realize! Studies suggest that those who drink it without adding any milk or sugar reap more health benefits as the natural ingredients within the bean work to do their work and reduce risks such as heart diseases, Parkinson’s Disease and Alzheimer’s.
Drinking several cups of black coffee each day has also been shown to lower blood pressure, due to its caffeine-containing ingredients helping regulate your blood sugar levels and having a positive impact on memory and cognitive abilities. This benefit is especially noticeable among older adults as it can prevent dementia and Alzheimer’s diseases from setting in earlier.
Even with these benefits, some remain dubious about the healthiness of black coffee. Furthermore, some studies have demonstrated its effects on our mood – as some studies show caffeine increases levels of “happy chemicals” in our brain, making us feel happier than before – however other research indicates this effect is temporary and won’t last long-term.
Do not allow these concerns to keep you from enjoying a daily dose of caffeine; there are no negative repercussions associated with its consumption as long as consumption remains within reasonable limits.
Kristin Panoff, RD, LD is a registered dietician and author who specializes in plant-based living. With over 10 years of experience in nutrition, Kristin is considered an authority on its benefits for both body and mind. As creator of popular blog RDKisses as well as frequent speaker on food-related wellness issues; regular contributor to HuffPost; regularly featured podcasts/TV shows etc… She currently resides in Southern California with her husband and three young children.
