Coffee has long been a topic of debate when it comes to its potential health effects, with some proclaiming it a life-saving elixir and others warning against heavy caffeine consumption. However, recent research shows that there may be some significant health benefits to indulging in your favorite cup of joe. So much so, that a new review of clinical trials funded by the U.S. National Institutes of Health found that coffee drinkers live longer than those who don’t drink coffee.
The Science Behind the Benefits
The extensive study examined more than 200,000 U.S. doctors, nurses, and other health professionals over a period of 30 years. Results showed that people who drank between one to five cups of coffee had lower odds of dying during the study, even when lifestyle habits and health problems such as hypertension and diabetes were taken into account. In all investigations conducted, both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee appeared to have the same life-giving effect.
It’s important to note that these findings don’t necessarily mean that increasing your coffee intake will guarantee a longer life, but it does suggest that moderate coffee consumption could lead to some significant health benefits.
The Nutrient-Packed Additions
While coffee on its own can boost your health, why not up the ante by adding some nutrient-rich ingredients to your daily cup? Here are some natural additives that will not only pump nutrients into your system but also enhance the overall taste and experience of drinking coffee:
- Turmeric: Turmeric is a potent antioxidant that can greatly increase the total antioxidant content of your coffee and reduce the bitter taste if that’s something that bothers you. You can easily add a pinch of turmeric powder to your coffee grounds before brewing or add a dash of turmeric extract to your already brewed cup.
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Ginger: Ginger is an anti-inflammatory substance that is excellent for stomach health. By adding some grated ginger to your morning coffee, you can aid digestion and potentially ease any discomfort caused by an upset stomach.
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Maca: Maca is an adaptogen root from Peru that is high in nutrients and helps you absorb oxygen better. If you drink coffee before a morning workout, adding this Peruvian powerhouse to your cup can provide an extra kick of energy and alertness during exercise.
Embracing Healthy Fats
Contrary to popular belief, adding fat to your coffee might not only be delicious but also incredibly beneficial. Blending nutrients into your coffee with healthy fats is an old-fashioned trick to keep you from feeling hungry for hours. But given the modern context, you might refer to it as biohacking. Small drops of fat, or micelles, increase the absorption of nutrients present in your coffee, which can greatly affect how your body processes the beverage.
You might want to stay away from loading your coffee with sugar; however, don’t shy away from incorporating some fatty cream or even butter into your morning brew. These healthy fats not only enhance the taste of your coffee but also help your body absorb more of the vital nutrients that a cup of coffee has to offer.
The Takeaway
Coffee has steadily transformed from being a mere pick-me-up to a beverage full of potential health benefits. With its life-giving properties such as reduced risks of early death from heart disease and Parkinson’s, it’s no wonder why coffee is such a beloved drink. By incorporating natural additives like turmeric, ginger, and maca, as well as healthy fats, you can optimize the benefits of your daily cup of joe and enjoy all the advantages that this marvelous beverage has to offer.
