Coffee – the Myth, the Legend

Coffee – either you love it or you hate it. Personally, I love savoring a cup of coffee mid-morning! But there have been so many differing opinions on whether or not the popular beverage is actually good for you – I’m Wendy Corr, and in today’s wellness tip, we will dispel some of the myths surrounding our favorite hot drink!

Coffee has some fabulous benefits – but because the effects of caffeine can vary in each individual, there are mixed messages surrounding whether coffee is good or bad for us.

On the plus side, coffee is loaded with beneficial nutrients that can improve your health. Studies show that coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of several serious diseases, coffee contains important nutrients, and the caffeine in coffee can help burn fat.

People who drink coffee regularly have a lower risk of getting type II diabetes, Alzheimers, or Parkinson’s Disease, and coffee consumption can help keep your liver healthy. It also appears to lower the risk of developing depression and may dramatically reduce the risk of suicide.

And for people who eat a standard American diet, coffee may actually be the healthiest aspect of their diet, because coffee contains a massive amount of antioxidants.

But there is a dark side to the coffee bean. People who drink coffee often have more high risk behaviors, like smoking and physical inactivity. Also, adding cream and sugar to your coffee adds fat and calories — up to hundreds of calories in some cases.

The Mayo Clinic reports that consuming more than 5-600 mg of caffeine a day may lead to insomnia, nervousness, restlessness, irritability, an upset stomach, a fast heartbeat and even muscle tremors.

Also, some people can become physically dependent on caffeine, and when coffee consumption is reduced or eliminated in these individuals they can suffer withdrawal – which triggers symptoms such as headache, fatigue, drowsiness, depression, irritability, concentration difficulties, nausea and vomiting.

But, the negative effects of coffee tend to emerge in excessive drinking, so it is best to avoid heavy consumption. In moderation, coffee can be a beneficial part of your daily routine!

Thanks for tuning in to Wellness with Wendy! I’m a certified holistic nutritionist, a mom, an entertainer and a radio personality – so finding balance is the key to my life. I love sharing tips and tricks to help you live your best life – so for more health and wellness news and advice, follow my blog on mybighornbasin.com. See you again next time for Wellness with Wendy!