A cup of coffee has several health benefits, according to research.
According to an article in The New England Journal of Medicine, in nature many plants contain caffeine, either in their seeds, fruits and leaves, such as cocoa beans and yerba mate leaves.
It is also common for us to find it, synthesized, in other beverages such as soft drinks, energy drinks, and even in supplements or medications to reduce fatigue.
The article points out that coffee contains hundreds of phytochemicals —substances that protect cells from the damage that cancer could cause— and polyphenols —bioactive compounds with antioxidant properties that help prevent our bodies from rusting by reducing the number of free radicals. and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Other elements that coffee contains are:
- Magnesium: nutrient that helps regulate muscle function, the nervous system, blood sugar levels, blood pressure.
- Potassium: Mineral that helps nerve function, muscle contraction, heart rate to stay constant and allows nutrients to flow to cells
- Vitamin B3: helps convert the food we eat into energy, plus it is important for the development and function of cells in the body.
- Among the benefits that these coffee compounds bring to our health are:
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Improves the intestinal microbiota.
- They modulate glucose and fat metabolism.
- Reduce fatigue: increase alertness and reduce reaction time; however, it cannot compensate for decreased performance after long-term sleep deprivation.
- Contributes to pain relief: according to the article, when added to commonly used analgesic agents.
- Helps prevent liver fibrosis: this through adenosine receptor antagonism, which promotes collagen production and fibrinogenesis.
- Cancer: various tests have shown that, thanks to its phytochemical compounds, there is a negative relationship between coffee consumption and the risk of cancer.
- Happiness: caffeine and other compounds in coffee promote the release of neurotransmitters, such as dopamine, important for the body’s motor function, related to pleasant sensations and relaxation.
- Parkinson’s: Caffeine has been found to prevent Parkinson’s disease in animal models.
- Reduces Mortality: Consumption of 2 to 5 standard cups of coffee per day has been associated with reduced mortality.
