Coffee is a distinct source of many health benefits as well as something that we often rely on to give us that added boost during the day to get us going. It has cast a signature of its own on daily 21st-century life because of its powerful antioxidant value as well as being one of the first things we reach for in the morning to wake us up from slumber-land. The effects of coffee can be almost immediate- within 10 minutes of your first morning cup and the mental alertness swiftly kicks in-caffeine power! Coffee can aid in improved attention, higher maintained attention over a period of time, and some studies have shown that caffeine is as effective as a 30-minute nap for increasing sharpness and mental alertness/activity as well as reaction times. Here we look at 3 ways the benefits of coffee and the potency of caffeine can help you!
Coffee and the mind!
As we know, coffee is a powerful anti-oxidant rich in polyphenols that may help prevent a number of diseases such as heart disease, type-2 diabetes, liver disease and cancer. It is also high in hydrocinnamic acids that are highly effective for neutralizing free radicals and preventing oxidative stress. Caffeine has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system and is well documented for its mental-function enhancing benefits. Some more recent studies have suggested that coffee can help to maintain cognitive function, particularly in older females. Lowered risk of neuro-degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s (potentially 17-20% lower!) and Parkinson’s in habitual coffee drinkers has also been positively linked.