Coffee

Is coffee healthy? That is a question many people have been asking these days. Usually the main concern is the caffeine content. But for those folks decaf is a good alternative. There is nothing quite like the smell of coffee in the morning and research seems to be showing that coffee has more good properties than we think. There was a study done of coffee and longevity. It showed that coffee drinkers live 3-4 years longer than non-coffee drinkers. That grabbed me and I decided to dig a little deeper. 

It appears that coffee boosts metabolism so for some people it may work as a weight loss aid. There is also evidence that it may boost athletic ability. Researchers claim that coffee lowers your chances of getting type 2 diabetes. It seems to help mood and brain activity and studies have indicated that coffee can lower the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. There is some promise that it may lower the risk of Alzheimer's. Coffee also has an impact on circulation. One study showed that it had an impact on the periferal blood vessels as well as the arteries in improving the blood flow. Coffee has antioxidants in it, more than fruits and vegetables. It also has vitamins B1, B2, B3, and B5 as well as potassium and mangenese. 

The way you take your coffee can make a big difference. First of all, get organic if possible, that way it will be free of herbicides and pesticides. It also poses less of a threat to the environment. Coffee that is loaded up with sugar and sugar substitutes can also be a problem in enjoying coffee's benefits. One good substitute sweetener is Stevia. Stevia comes from a plant in the Amazon and is completely natural. Another is coconut sugar. One needs to also be aware of artificial creamers. If you go to a coffee shop be aware of the sugar content of the specialty coffees. 

Some scientists seem to think that black is the way to go when drinking coffee. I have never enjoyed black coffee, I use real milk or cream or coconut milk, and stevia or coconut sugar in mine.There are also things you can add to coffee to make it special like cinnamon or cocoa powder.Whether or not you decide to continue or start drinking coffee, there is one thing to be aware of. Two or three cups a day is good. More than that will give you t he negative effects of coffee like being jittery. 

I am working on a new book about healthy spices. Perhaps you know of my other book Ten Healthy Teas. I would like to invite you to view my web site at www.valerielull.com. It is also available on Amazon. I also welcome your comments on my blog postings and my book. 

Valerie Lull

Lullval@hotmail.com