Coffee is one of the world’s most popular beverages. In the Philippines alone in 2019, a total of 3.4 million 60 kg bags of coffee were consumed and the Philippines has been one of the leading consumption markets for soluble coffee, also known as instant coffee since 2011.

Caffeine is the best-known ingredient of coffee and it has beneficial effects on the human body, but coffee as a whole is a complex beverage with a thousand other substances that may affect your health as well. Is coffee good or bad for you? Find out the health benefits and risks of coffee below!

1. Enhance brain function

Coffee is the biggest source of caffeine, which is a known stimulant. In one’s brain, it blocks the function of an inhibitory neurotransmitter (brain hormone) called adenosine. By blocking adenosine, caffeine increases activity in your brain and releases other neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine. This reduces tiredness and makes your feel more alert.

2. Boost metabolism

Caffeine can also boost metabolism by 3-11% and exercise performance by 11-12% on average. Several studies show that caffeine can specifically increase fat burning as much as 10% in obese individuals and 29% in lean people.

3. Can cause anxiety

Consuming too much caffeine can lead to anxiety and heart palpitations. But this depends on the individual. If you are sensitive to caffeine and tend to become overstimulated, you may want to avoid coffee.

It’s important to keep in mind how your body reacts upon the consumption of coffee. Although, coffee has a lot of impressive health benefits, but take in mind that drinking coffee also has its risks. Moderation is the key. But if you can tolerate its caffeine content and enjoy its taste, don’t hesitate to stir in and pour yourself a cup or more to help you be energized throughout the day!

AA VI Cielo Katrina M. Mabalot

References:

1. “12 health benefits of coffee” from https://blog.warriorcoffee.com/blog/12-health-benefits-and-6-disadvantages-of-coffee-smashing-it

2. “Coffee- good or bad?” from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/coffee-good-or-bad#TOC_TITLE_HDR_13

3. “Total consumption of coffee in the Philippines” from https://www.statista.com/statistics/314989/philippines-total-coffee-consumption/

4. “13 health benefits of coffee, based on science” from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-13-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coffee