#HealthBytes: Top 7 health benefits of coffee
One of the world's most popular sips, coffee gets a bad rap at times, because of its high caffeine content. However, its richness in antioxidants and health-boosting nutrients make it a (relatively!) healthy drink to have. Furthermore, studies have shown that coffee-drinkers are at a lower risk of many dreadful health conditions. Here are top 7 science-backed health benefits of drinking coffee.
Coffee actually makes your smarter (in short-run, at least)
The most commonly used psychoactive substance in the world, caffeine is present in plenty in coffee, thus lending it the ability to reduce fatigue and increase energy levels. Drinking coffee leads to an increase in the amount of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This, in turn, leads to improved brain function- including boost in memory, mood, vigilance and general mental function.
Coffee aids fat-burn; is good for liver health
Fat burn: Many studies prove that caffeine can boost the metabolism rate by 3-11%, thus making coffee a great drink for helping you get rid of unwanted fat, quicker. Liver health: You liver health is of utmost importance. Luckily, research suggests that people who regularly drink coffee (4 cups or more) are at a massive 80% lower risk of developing cirrhosis of liver.
Coffee keeps risk of dreadful mental health conditions at bay
Alzheimer's and Parkinson's are two of the most common neurodegenerative conditions. However, with healthy lifestyle and diet habits, the risk of these conditions can be reduced. Coffee, for one, can be quite helpful. Studies have shown that coffee drinkers have up to 65% lower risk of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, Parkinson's is 32-60% less likely to affect drinkers of coffee.
Coffee lowers risk of Type-2 diabetes and certain cancers
Type-2 Diabetes: As per a large review of 18 studies, concerning close to 4,50,000 participants, it was found that each cup of coffee (daily) was linked with an impressive 7% decline in the risk of developing Type-2 diabetes. Cancer: Several studies have shown that coffee intake can help reduce the chances of developing liver and colorectal cancers.
Coffee can help deal with depression
Coffee, by nature, helps boost your mood and reduces stress. That's why it is effective in helping people deal with depression. A 2011 Harvard Study found that women who drank 4 or more coffee cups per day had a 20% lower risk of getting depressed.
