Coffee is one of the most popular beverages around the world, along with tea, of course. But, there’s often confusion about coffee. Is coffee healthy? Or does it lead to bone loss and heart attacks? Here are some coffee facts for you.
The most recent research shows that coffee in moderation (that’s 1-3 cups per day) helps keep you hydrated (yes, it’s true!) without any detrimental effect on health and may actually offer some mild health benefits such as:
- Reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, gallstone formation, Alzheimer’s, and liver disease
- Coffee can also reduce asthma symptoms and of course, coffee helps us feel more alert
But slow down! Before you go and drink an entire pot, you need to know that there are some potential side effects if you over-consume. The stimulating caffeine in that cup of Joe may lead to:
- Jitteriness, insomnia, heart palpitations, heartburn and increased symptoms for men with prostate problems
- Coffee can also cause a slight rise in blood pressure
So if you’re pregnant, nursing, or have other medical issues you may want consult your physician.
For those of us who need our cup of Joe in the mornings, but prefer it cold as the weather turns hot, here’s a great recipe for cold brew coffee. Remember to keep your coffee healthy by avoiding too much added sugar or cream.
- 1 cup of your favorite ground coffee
- 3 cups water
- a sealed container such as a mason jar
- a strainer and a coffee filter
- Stir the coffee and water in the jar and let it sit at room temperature for at least 12 hours, and up to 24 hours. Strain the coffee through the filter into a bowl. Pour the strained coffee into a clean container with a lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
- To serve, pour equal amounts of coffee and cold water over ice. Add milk or cream, to taste, and sweeten as desired.
Of course, you can always tweak this recipe to suit your taste!
One of the most important benefits for me is that is cools me in a warm day. The rest are side benefits. 🙂 Oh, and that it improves my mood. A great cofee always makes you feel better.