By Aditi Prasad Apte
Black coffee is among the easiest beverages you can prepare, that is, coffee powder and hot water only. No cream, no sugar, and no milk to be mixed in. What’s more, the drink that appears to be so simple is packed with a number of powerful benefits that have made it popular not only with fitness enthusiasts, office-workers but also with doctors who moderate its intake and recommend the drink. Since it contains neither sugar nor milk, it is low in calories and at the same time very rich in antioxidants. Hence, it is a better option for those who want to reduce their sugar intake, control their weight, or speed up their metabolism.
Energy and Focus Boost
Black coffee is the most common drink that instantly boosts energy and the main reason why people love it. The caffeine does wake you up, boosts the alertness and it is easier for you to focus. Drinking it in the morning or just before starting your work can make you feel more lively and mentally sharp. It is also a factor that improves one’s reaction time and concentration which is why lots of students and professionals depend on it.
A Great Help in Losing Weight
Black coffee has a very low-caloric content which renders it one of the best drinks for a weight loss diet. Besides, it has a metabolism-boosting effect which means that through the day your body will burn more calories. It also hastens the process of body fat being released. Many persons opt for a cup prior to workout since it gives more endurance and aids in burning the calories more efficiently.
Supports Heart Health (in Moderation)
If taken in small amounts — which usually means one to two cups a day — black coffee may be able to lower the chances of heart disorders. It enhances the flow of blood, calms down inflammation and the cappillaries get more support. But bear in mind that overconsumption of coffee can actually lead to opposite effects, thus moderation is very important.
Might Lower the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Drinking coffee on a daily basis is, in fac, linked to lower diabetes risk. This is because coffee improves the body’s insulin sensitivity and thus, glucose is used more efficiently. However, this applies only to black coffee and that too, unsweetened. Otherwise, sugar would take the advantage away.
Helps in Liver Health
Also, black coffee is known for its ability to protect the liver. Moderate and regular consumption is associated with a decreased risk of fatty liver, cirrhosis and even liver cancer. It helps in the control of anti-liver enzymes and the support of general detoxification by the liver system. Thus, black coffee is mainly beneficial for those who suffer liver problems due to their lifestyle.
Enhances Mood and Brain Activity
Caffeine boosts dopamine levels — the “hormone of happiness” — which means you feel better and less tired. Besides, black coffee also promotes longevity of the brain and lowers the chances of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The reason is that it not only eliminates the brain cells but also reduces nerve inflammation.
How Much Black Coffee Is Safe?
1–2 cups daily are regarded as safe for most grown-ups. Over that may cause jitters, stomach upset, insomnia or faster heartbeat. It is advised not to have black coffee late evening or night, as it could disrupt your sleeping patterns.
Who Should Be Careful?
The ones who are suffering from acidity, stomach ulcers, extreme anxiety or have blood pressure that is not controlled should be careful. Moreover, pregnant women are advised to see a doctor first before making it a habit of drinking caffeinated drinks.
When drinking black coffee at reasonable levels, it can be a great healthy asset to your daily regimen. Its energy-giving, weight loss, liver and heart support, mood enhancing and antioxidant providing properties are among its few benefits.
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The reason is that it not only eliminates the brain cells but also
reduces nerve inflammation.
How Much Black Coffee Is Safe?
1–2 cups daily are regarded as safe for most grown-ups. Over that may cause jitters, stomach upset,
insomnia or faster heartbeat. It is advised not to have black coffee late evening or night, as it could
disrupt your sleeping patterns.
Who Should Be Careful?
The ones who are suffering from acidity, stomach ulcers, extreme anxiety or have blood pressure
that is not controlled should be careful. Moreover, pregnant women are advised to see a doctor first
before making it a habit of drinking caffeinated drinks.
When drinking black coffee at reasonable levels, it can be a great healthy asset to your daily
regimen. Its energy-giving, weight loss, liver and heart support, mood enhancing and antioxidant
providing properties are among its few benefits.
Aditi Prasad Apte is Senior Clinical Nutritionist