?>
There’s almost no drink as popular as coffee. From a casual pick-me-up to the morning can’t-function-without-it, coffee drinkers are serious about getting their cup.
Despite its widespread popularity, coffee has a history of being at the center of debates about its impact on health. Is it really all it’s cracked up to be or are there hidden dangers behind the bean?
The truth lies somewhere in between. When consumed in moderation, coffee can be a powerful ally for overall wellness, but it’s also important to separate fact from fiction. As a wellness-driven coffee shop in San Antonio, we want to openly uncover the health truths about coffee, debunk common myths, and explore how to enjoy it responsibly as part of a balanced lifestyle.
When you think of coffee, caffeine likely steals the spotlight. But there’s more brewing in your cup! Coffee is also packed with powerful antioxidants and active compounds that can help reduce inflammation and safeguard your body against various diseases. Here are some of the many reported and researched health benefits of coffee.
We want to set the record straight on some of the common coffee myths floating around out there.
While coffee is a diuretic, meaning it causes more frequent trips to the bathroom, moderate coffee consumption does not lead to dehydration. In fact, the water in your coffee contributes to your daily hydration needs, just like other beverages.
It’s still important to hydrate with water when having coffee, but rest assured, your morning cup is keeping you more hydrated than not.
Many people believe that because coffee increases the heart rate, it can increase your risk of heart disease. However, research shows that moderate consumption (3-5 cups per day) is actually linked to a lower risk of heart-related issued. Packed with antioxidants and compounds that support cardiovascular health, coffee can improve blood vessel function and reduce inflammation.
With that being said, it’s important to approach coffee consumption with balance. Excessive caffeine can cause temporary spikes in heart rate for some people, which can be fatal if you have preexisting conditions that compromise your health.
This is especially important to consider when adding extra shots of espresso to your drinks or having too many energy drinks.
There are some who say coffee stunts growth – but in our experience, this is just something parents say to their kids to steer them away from regular coffee consumption.
We’re certainly on their side, though, because no amount of caffeine is good for kids under the age of 12. This is because children are extra sensitive to caffeine’s effects, in part, because their brains aren’t fully developed yet. Furthermore, it’s best to educate your children about the negative effects of caffeine and steer them away from coffee, energy drinks, and even too much soda.
As it relates to growth and height, according to the data, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that coffee inhibits growth, especially in adults. This misconception likely stemmed from early studies linking caffeine to reduced bone density, but modern research has debunked those claims. In reality, moderate coffee consumption has no impact on growth or overall bone health, especially if you maintain a balanced diet with adequate calcium
It’s true that coffee can be acidic and having too much coffee on an empty stomach can lead to discomfort in your gut. However, it does not inherently cause stomach ulcers or digestive problems unless consumed in excess.
In fact, moderate coffee consumption has been shown to aid digestion by stimulating stomach acid production, which can help break down food more efficiently. If you experience discomfort, opting for low-acid coffee blends or drinking it with food can make all the difference. In other words, coffee lovers with a healthy stomach have no reason to fear their favorite brew.
While coffee has plenty of perks, the caffeine in it is still a drug. Overdoing it (more than 400mg per day) can lead to unwanted side effects, such as:
For the average adult, it’s recommended to limit caffeine intake to roughly four 8-ounce cups of coffee. By enjoying your coffee in moderation and spacing it throughout the day, you can savor its benefits while avoiding the risks of overconsumption.
Enjoying your daily cup of coffee is no crime! There are so many ways to ensure you maintain moderation when drinking coffee. Start by tailoring your intake to your body’s needs to fully reap the benefits without the drawbacks.
You can also maximize your health benefits from coffee by opting for organic, high-quality coffee beans to reduce exposure to pesticides and other chemicals. At Archies, we have our own in-house blends made from locally sourced beans.
If you’re looking to balance out your coffee intake, try caffeine-free options (i.e. decaf coffee), herbal teas, plant-based energy drinks, or mushroom-based drinks. This is a great way to get some boost in energy without relying solely on coffee.
By incorporating alternative options into your day, you can also balance out any sensitivities you may have, such as the jitters, caffeine anxiety, or the crash that comes after!
While myths about coffee’s health effects continue to float around unchecked, understanding the facts can help you make informed choices about your daily cup.
By staying mindful of your caffeine intake and tailoring your habits to your personal health needs, you can enjoy coffee and specialty espresso drinks as a delightful and health-conscious part of your lifestyle.
At Archies Coffee, we’re here to help you find your perfect brew, whether it’s a classic cup, a seasonal favorite, or a plant-based energy drink. Visit our San Antonio coffee shop and explore our wide variety of drinks crafted with your well-being in mind. Order online now!