Coffee is a widely consumed beverage made from roasted coffee beans, known for its stimulating effects due to caffeine. Beyond its energizing properties, coffee offers several health benefits. Coffee boosts energy during workouts and enhances focus primarily due to its caffeine content, which directly affects the body and brain in several ways:
Key Takeaways
A new study has found that drinking coffee may help you maintain muscle mass as you age.
However, experts stressed that we don’t have evidence suggesting coffee definitely improves muscle mass—only that there’s an association between coffee consumption and higher muscle mass.
Experts said maintaining healthy muscle mass is important because it reduces the likelihood of falls in older adults.
Health Benefits of Coffee
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Regular coffee consumption has been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers. Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in coffee contribute to these protective effects.
Neuroprotective Effects: Studies suggest that caffeine intake may reduce the risk of neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
Liver Health: Coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of liver conditions, including liver cancer and cirrhosis.
Longevity: Some research indicates that moderate coffee intake may be linked to increased lifespan
Recommended Daily Intake
The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests that moderate coffee consumption is generally safe for most people. Specific recommendations include:
General Population: Up to 400 mg of caffeine per day (approximately 4 cups of coffee) is considered safe for most adults.
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: It’s advisable to limit caffeine intake to less than 200 mg per day (about 2 cups of coffee) to reduce potential risks.
Who Should Be Cautious
While coffee offers health benefits, certain individuals should exercise caution:
Pregnant Women: High caffeine intake during pregnancy may be associated with risks such as miscarriage or low birth weight. Limiting consumption is recommended.
Individuals with Anxiety Disorders: Caffeine can exacerbate anxiety and may lead to increased nervousness or restlessness.
People with Heart Conditions: Those with certain heart conditions should consult their healthcare provider regarding caffeine intake, as it can affect heart rate and blood pressure.
Children and Adolescents: It’s advisable to limit caffeine consumption in younger populations due to potential sensitivity.
In summary, moderate coffee consumption can be part of a healthy lifestyle for many individuals, offering various health benefits. However, it’s important to consider individual health conditions and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific concerns about caffeine intake.
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