Coffee can improve your health but…

The relationship between coffee drinking and health has been a serious topic in recent years, but research has produced mixed results. Some studies have linked coffee consumption to better health and a lower risk of premature death, while others suggest that coffee or rather caffeine might contribute to heart disease through negative effects on blood […]

The relationship between coffee drinking and health has been a serious topic in recent years, but research has produced mixed results.

Some studies have linked coffee consumption to better health and a lower risk of premature death, while others suggest that coffee or rather caffeine might contribute to heart disease through negative effects on blood pressure, cholesterol, and heart rate. But here are some other benefits.

Less likely to have type 2 diabetes

Coffee contains minerals such as magnesium and chromium, which help the body use the hormone insulin that controls blood sugar (glucose). In type 2 diabetes, the body loses its ability to use insulin and regulate blood sugar effectively.

Studies suggest that coffee drinkers are less likely to develop Type 2 diabetes, with those putting away four or more cups daily 50 percent less likely. A January 2012 report in the ‘Journal of Agricultural & Food Chemistry” explains why. It attributes the effect to compounds in coffee that block polypeptide that can result in abnormal protein fibers, which are found in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Memory improvement

Experts say coffee can help with both long- and short-term memory. Researchers found out that consuming two cups of caffeinated coffee improved short-term memory and reaction times.

Interestingly, a 2007 study found that women-but not men-who were 65 or older who drank more than three cups of coffee each day performed better on memory tests and were less likely to show memory decline than those who drank just one cup a day.

However, Mrs Sareh Abagia, Head Dietetics Department, National Hospital Abuja, however warns on some of the effect of caffeine on the body.

“Caffeine can cause nervousness, anxiety, insomnia, chronic fatigue, lack of energy, stomach irritation, vomiting, and interference with calcium and iron absorption and aggravation of ulcers. Other serious side effects include elevation of blood pressure and increased stomach acid secretions and heightened symptoms of post menopausal syndrome. ”Abagia says. She advised people to take coffee in moderation.

Other research shows that pregnant women who drink many cups of coffee daily may be at greater risk of miscarriage than non-drinkers or moderate drinkers. Again, it is not clear whether the coffee was responsible for that.