Coffee has long been a staple in many people's daily routines. But beyond its rich aroma and energizing effects, coffee also offers surprising health benefits—and some potential downsides if consumed excessively.
Let's break down the science behind your favourite morning brew.
The Benefits of Coffee
1. Gut Health and Metabolism
Coffee contains short-chain fatty acids essential for gut flora, known as coffee oligosaccharides (COS). These compounds help regulate weight, digestion, fat absorption, and blood pressure (Tripathi & Murthy, 2023). A healthy gut is crucial for overall wellness, and coffee may play a beneficial role.
2. Mood and Emotional Well-Being
A 2017 study found that coffee consumption is generally associated with positive emotions, wellness, energy, and a trendy lifestyle (Samoggia et al., 2020). This suggests that coffee isn’t just a beverage; it’s a mood booster and social connector.
3. Cognitive Function and Neuroprotection
Coffee's health benefits are often attributed to its rich phytochemical profile, which includes caffeine, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid. These compounds are linked to a reduced risk of diseases like diabetes, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s, as well as improved cognitive function (Butt & Sultan, 2011).
4. Depression and Mental Health
Coffee consumption can alleviate symptoms of depression by stimulating dopamine receptors, enhancing feelings of pleasure and motivation (Berg, 2024).
5. Exercise Performance
Caffeine, when taken before exercise, increases endurance and reduces perceived fatigue, making workouts feel more manageable (Berg, 2024).
6. Pain Relief
Caffeine improves the absorption of other pain-relievers, making it effective for treating headaches and migraines. This is why caffeine is a common ingredient in medications like Midol (Berg, 2024).
The Drawbacks of Coffee Overuse
1. Increased Cholesterol Levels
Cafestol and kahweol, two compounds in unfiltered coffee, can raise LDL cholesterol levels, which may increase the risk of heart disease (Butt & Sultan, 2011). Opt for filtered coffee to mitigate this risk.
2. Caffeine Withdrawal
Regular coffee drinkers may experience withdrawal symptoms like headaches, fatigue, irritability, and muscle pain when cutting back (Smith et al., 2006). These symptoms can persist for up to two weeks.
3. Anxiety and Jitters
Even small amounts of caffeine can trigger anxiety, restlessness, and jitters in sensitive individuals (Berg, 2024), who haven't yet discovered alternatives like Cafézia, which offer a slow-release caffeine experience.
Tips for Healthy Coffee Consumption
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Make Cafézia your go-to coffee for a balanced and mindful caffeine experience. Its herbal-infused blends provide slow-release caffeine and lower acidity for sustained focus and energy without the typical jitters, crashes or heartburn.
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Small, Frequent Doses: Sip smaller amounts throughout the day to maintain alertness without overstimulation (Berg, 2024).
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Stay Hydrated: Drink water aongside your coffee to stay hydrated.
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Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to how coffee affects your mood, sleep, and digestion.
Why Cafézia Stands Out
Cafézia takes coffee to the next level with its herbal-infused blends, designed to provide slow-release caffeine for sustained focus and energy without the typical jitters, crashes, heartburn and gut challenges. Studies indicate that slow-release caffeine enhances cognitive performance over long periods (Beaumont et al., 2001). Plus, by reducing caffeine's impact on the nervous system, Cafézia helps coffee lovers enjoy their cup without disrupting their sleep quality.
Coffee Culture: Purpose Over Habit
Cafézia is on a mission to reconnect us with the true essence of coffee culture—where health, wellness, and meaningful connections come first. Coffee is more than just a drink; it’s an experience that brings people together across cultures, countries, and even office breakrooms. Whether you're savouring a morning cup for focus and productivity or indulging in an afternoon brew for pleasure, take a moment to consider the purpose behind your coffee ritual. With Cafézia, every cup becomes an invitation to slow down, connect, and care—for yourself and for those around you.
Looking for a more balanced caffeine experience? Use code FIRSTTRY at checkout to receive 10% off your first order.
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References
Beaumont, M., et al. (2001). Slow release caffeine and prolonged (64-h) continuous wakefulness: effects on vigilance and cognitive performance. Journal of Sleep Research.
Berg, S. (2024). What doctors wish patients knew about the impact of caffeine. American Medical Association.
Butt, M. S. & Sultan, M. T. (2011). Coffee and its consumption: Benefits and risks. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition.
Pan, M., et al. (2016). Molecular mechanisms of the anti-obesity effect of bioactive compounds in tea and coffee. Food & Function.
Samoggia, A., et al. (2020). Social media exploration for understanding food product attributes perception: The case of coffee and health with Twitter data. British Food Journal.
Smith, B. D., et al. (2006). Caffeine and activation theory: Effects on health and behavior. Taylor & Francis Group.
Tripathi, S. & Murthy, P. S. (2023). Coffee oligosaccharides and their role in health and wellness. Food Research International.