Lots of people can't even imagine starting their day without a cup of coffee.
If you're one of the many who roll out of bed and start brewing a pot before you even use the bathroom, I have good news for you: the coffee you drink every day is probably good for your health!
Whether your go-to is plain black coffee, a sweet iced coffee, or a fancier espresso drink, caffeine isn't the only benefit you're getting from your morning cup of joe.
Many people see coffee as the go-to choice for a midday energy boost, but did you know it can actually have a long-term effect on your health?
There are actually a variety of health benefits of coffee, ranging from relieving constipation to reducing the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Read below to learn more about some of the incredible and fascinating health benefits of coffee!
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Benefit #1: Reduced Symptoms Of Parkinson’s Disease
According to the American Academy of Neurology, coffee may actually help reduce some of the symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
They report, "While drinking caffeine each day does not appear to help improve sleepiness among people with Parkinson's disease, it may have a benefit in controlling movement."
Benefit #2: Protects Against Type 2 Diabetes
Drinking coffee on a daily basis can also help reduce the odds of having type 2 diabetes.
WebMD explains: "Coffee also contains minerals such as magnesium and chromium, which help the body use the hormone insulin, which controls blood sugar (glucose)."
Benefit #3: Lowers Rates Of Depression Among Women
The New York Times reports that coffee's mood-elevating benefits don't just go away when the caffeine's effects wear off.
"A new study shows that women who regularly drink coffee — the fully caffeinated kind — have a 20% lower risk of depression than nondrinkers," they explain.
And the more coffee you drink, the lower your risk of depression becomes (up until six cups).
Benefit #4: Increases Longevity
Fascinatingly enough, coffee — which makes you feel like there's more time in the day — may also actually extend your life.
"Some studies have found an association between coffee consumption and decreased overall mortality," explains the Mayo Clinic.
Benefit #5: It Can Reduce Constipation
The Washington Post reports that around 30% of people feel the need to rush to the bathroom after drinking a cup of coffee.
Coffee actually helps get things moving "down there," so it can relieve and reduce constipation.
To find out more about why coffee makes people poop, check out this LittleThings article.
Benefit #6: It’s High In Antioxidants
Coffee has a lot of antioxidants, which are great for your health. In fact, antioxidants can fight against certain forms of cancer.
Harvard Medical School explains that coffee can lower the risk of some cancers. "Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory substances could be responsible for possible anti-cancer activity," they explain.
Benefit #7: Protects Against Liver Disease
Not only does coffee help you beat a nasty hangover, it can also help keep your liver healthy!
"Coffee drinking is associated with lower levels of enzymes that indicate liver damage and inflammation… Findings suggest some protection against liver cancer," explains Harvard Medical School.
Benefit #8: Reduces Risk Of Heart Attacks
If you drink a moderate amount of coffee (not too much), it could lead to a small decrease in risk of heart attack, especially in women.
Drinking coffee can also reduce the risk of abnormal heart rhythms, which can send you to the hospital.
How Much Coffee Is Too Much Coffee?
Although coffee may be good for you, it shouldn't replace other drinks, like water, milk, and some fruit juices.
Plus, if you add cream and sugar to your coffee, you're consuming a lot of unnecessary calories and fats.
The Mayo Clinic explains that you shouldn't drink more than four cups of coffee each day, and that number should be lower if you experience negative side effects like insomnia, jitteriness, irritability, or nervousness.
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