After all, is coffee bad or good for your health?

Coffee, a drink loved by millions of people around the world, is often the subject of heated debate about its effects on health. Is it a villain or an ally for our well-being? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll unravel the myths and truths about coffee, exploring its benefits and potential risks, so you can make informed decisions about its consumption.

Coffee: a villain or an ally?

The answer is not as simple as “yes” or “no”. Coffee, like any food or drink, can have both positive and negative effects on health, depending on the amount consumed and individual factors.

Benefits of coffee

1. Improved cognitive performance: Caffeine, the main active substance in coffee, acts as a stimulant to the central nervous system, increasing attention, concentration and performance in mental tasks.
2. Helps with weight loss: Caffeine can speed up metabolism and increase fat burning, helping to control body weight.
3. Antioxidant properties: Coffee is rich in antioxidant compounds that fight free radicals, preventing premature aging and reducing the risk of various chronic diseases.
4. Protection against neurodegenerative diseases: Studies suggest that regular coffee consumption can reduce the risk of developing diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
5. Reducing the risk of heart disease: Coffee can have a protective effect against heart disease and strokes, especially in women.
6. Improves mood: Caffeine can increase the production of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin, which are related to feelings of well-being and the reduction of symptoms of depression.

Myths and truths about coffee

• Does coffee cause insomnia?

Truth: Coffee can interfere with sleep if consumed in excess, especially at night.

• Does coffee cause osteoporosis?

Truth: Excessive coffee consumption can increase calcium excretion in the urine, but this effect can be minimized with adequate calcium intake in the diet.

• Is coffee addictive?

Truth: Coffee can cause physical dependence, but this dependence is generally mild and does not pose major health risks.

• Is coffee bad for pregnant women?

Truth: Pregnant women should limit their coffee consumption to a maximum of 200 mg of caffeine per day, the equivalent of about two cups of coffee.

• Does coffee damage the liver?

Myth: Studies show that regular coffee consumption can reduce the risk of liver disease, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.

Tips for conscious coffee consumption

1. Moderation is the key: Limit your coffee consumption to no more than 400 mg of caffeine per day, the equivalent of about four cups of coffee.
2. Avoid coffee in the evening: Drinking coffee in the late hours of the day can impair your sleep.
3. Pay attention to your sensitivity to caffeine: Some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others. If you notice negative effects such as insomnia or nervousness, reduce your coffee consumption.
4. Choose a quality coffee: Choose coffees of good origin and avoid those with a high content of additives and sugars.
5. Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body’s signals and adjust your coffee consumption according to how you feel.

Remember that:

Coffee can be a healthy part of your diet, as long as you consume it in moderation and pay attention to your body’s signals. Combine coffee consumption with a balanced diet, regular exercise and good sleeping habits to get the most out of its benefits.

At Pilares da Saúde, ourteam of specialists is always ready to advise you on eating habits and lifestyle choices that promote well-being and balanced health. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact one of our professionals.

Enjoy your coffee, but remember: balance is everything!

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