Health effects of coffee

For years, people have been told to reduce the amount of coffee they drink, and much of the health stigma is because of the high caffeine content. However, research shows that there are beneficial health effects that come with moderate coffee drinking. Some doctors say that excessive coffee drinking can cause a high heart rate, but many believe that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. Coffee consumption might reduce the risk of contracting Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, gallstone disease and Parkinson's disease. It is also thought to raise the metabolism.

Ongoing research seems to say that coffee has cancer-fighting attributes. It may reduce the risk of liver cancer by up to half, and may reduce the incidence of breast and colon cancers as well. Coffee drinkers may also have half the risk of getting diabetes, due to the drink's purported blood sugar-lowering properties. The beverage can protect men against Parkinson's disease, and it is thought to affect the cholesterol level of bile secreted by the liver.

Despite the health benefits of coffee, there are some risks associated with high consumption. Large amounts of coffee can result in higher heart rate and blood pressure, arrhythmia, anxiety, addiction, and irritability. Drinking too much coffee can potentially cause heartburn, osteoporosis, and heightened symptoms of PMS. Research also says that excessive coffee consumption may also lower fertility in women of childbearing age. As with anything else that's enjoyable, moderation is the key!