Coffee: The Most Controversial Superfood

Beautiful cup of espresso with cream and foam, capsule coffee.The scent of fresh coffee and eggs fill my kitchen every morning. To some, that might sound like an unhealthy breakfast. To others, it can’t get much better.

There is no doubt that coffee and eggs are two of the most controversial foods out there. Eggs because of the cholesterol content, and coffee because of the caffeine.

Advertisement

But the overwhelming amount of data suggests that these two items are not only safe, but they offer a host of health benefits. Personally, I’d go right ahead and offer superfood status to both.

New data is offering even more support for coffee.

A recent study has shown that drinking up to three cups per day – considered light to moderate consumption – may lower the risk of stroke, fatal heart disease, and all-cause death.

Researchers also found that many types of coffee – caffeinated, decaf, brewed, and instant – may offer heart benefits.

Throughout the 15-year study period, those who drank coffee had a 12 percent lower risk of all-cause death, 21 percent lower risk of stroke, and a 17 percent risk reduction in fatal heart disease, compared to non-coffee drinkers.

The researchers also found that regular coffee drinkers had healthier, better functioning hearts, a likely factor in the outcomes mentioned above.

If you’re feeling great about your morning routine and cup of joe, keep one thing in mind: those benefits can be slashed if you add too much to it.

Sweeteners like sugar and syrups can devalue your coffee and end up promoting heart-related health conditions. Add sweeteners sparingly, and if you like the taste of black coffee, even better!

Advertisement

The only other things to think about are assessing caffeine tolerance and when you drink it.

Personally, two cups in the morning are good for me. My caffeine tolerance is relatively low and even two cups, drunk too fast, can get me going a little too fast. I also can’t drink it in the afternoon if I plan on getting a good night’s sleep!

If caffeine makes you anxious, experiment to find your sweet spot, or try decaf options.

Author Bio

About eight years ago, Mat Lecompte had an epiphany. He’d been ignoring his health and suddenly realized he needed to do something about it. Since then, through hard work, determination and plenty of education, he has transformed his life. He’s changed his body composition by learning the ins and outs of nutrition, exercise, and fitness and wants to share his knowledge with you. Starting as a journalist over 10 years ago, Mat has not only honed his belief system and approach with practical experience, but he has also worked closely with nutritionists, dieticians, athletes, and fitness professionals. He embraces natural healing methods and believes that diet, exercise and willpower are the foundation of a healthy, happy, and drug-free existence.

Advertisement

Advertisement