What Does Coffee Really Do to You?

Caffeine can be beneficial in small doses as part of a healthy diet. Learn about the potential benefits of drinking coffee and how much you should consume.

What Does Coffee Really Do to You?

Caffeine is a stimulant that increases the activity of the brain and nervous system, as well as the circulation of certain chemicals in the body. In small doses, it can leave you feeling refreshed and focused. It acts as a central nervous system stimulant, blocking the effects of a chemical called adenosine which causes drowsiness. This is why many people drink coffee or tea to stay awake.

The Australian Dietary Guidelines include 1 to 2 small coffees (200 ml) as part of a healthy daily eating plan for the average adult (19 to 50 years old). Similarly, another study in 1,567 people found that consumption of caffeinated coffee was associated with a lower risk of death after 12 and 18 years of follow-up. In addition, a study of more than 200,000 people showed that drinking coffee was linked to a lower risk of death by suicide (1). There are several proposed actions of caffeine or coffee components that can prevent the formation of gallstones.

A cup of tea only contains 14 to 60 milligrams of caffeine, while coffee contains up to 200. What defines a cup is the type of coffee bean used, how it is roasted, the amount of ground and how it is made. If you don't drink your regular coffee, you may start to experience symptoms of caffeine withdrawal, such as headaches, irritability, tiredness, and muscle pain. Hu said moderate coffee intake of 2 to 5 cups a day is linked to a lower likelihood of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, liver and endometrial cancer, Parkinson's disease, and depression.

An article produced by the Italian Longitudinal Study found that coffee consumption habits may even reduce the risk of mild cognitive impairment and dementia. Coffee is known for its ability to adjust your concentration and increase your energy levels. However, if you add cream and sugar to your homemade coffee it could quickly rise to more than 200 calories per serving. In conclusion, caffeine can be beneficial in small doses as part of a healthy diet.

It can help you stay alert and focused while also reducing your risk for certain diseases. However, it's important to be mindful of how much you're consuming and what you're adding to your coffee.

Glenna Matthys
Glenna Matthys

Hardcore internet practitioner. Wannabe beer advocate. Infuriatingly humble beer expert. Devoted coffee evangelist. Hardcore social media scholar. Friendly beer fanatic.