Have Your Coffee and Your Health
By Paul Rothbart
What would the world be like without coffee? It can seem like no one would do anything until at least 10 a.m. Coffee is popular worldwide and helps numerous people wake up and get going. Science has also found that coffee is healthy, containing as many antioxidants as several fruits and vegetables. Depending on how much you drink and what you add, coffee can be detrimental to health. Here are some tips to enjoy your coffee and keep it healthy.
Limit Sugar
Coffee generally has a bitter taste. Some people love this but many counter it by adding sugar. Excess sugar is one of the worst things for your body. It adds empty calories to your diet and can lead to obesity. It can also cause type 2 diabetes. Controlling the amount of sugar you put in your coffee will keep it healthy. Consider using a natural sweetener such as stevia or no sweetener at all. I use just some skim milk. It cuts the bitterness and acidity with no sugar or fat.
Not Too Much
It's very easy to binge on coffee, especially if you are feeling tired that day or love the taste. But like most things, too much coffee is not good for you. Excess amounts of caffeine can cause problems like jitteriness or hyperactivity. Some people experience headaches. Everyone's tolerance is different so know what yours is and keep your coffee within that range. You want a boost, not a launch.
Stop Around 2 p.m.
Consumed too close to bedtime, caffeine can make it very difficult to fall asleep. Lack of sleep is one of the worst things for your health, so you don't want to do anything that may interfere. Early afternoon may seem a long way from bed, but caffeine is potent. Get a feel for when your personal cutoff is, and stop drinking coffee then. There's always tomorrow.
Drink Organic Coffee
Like other plants, coffee beans attract insects when they are growing. Pesticides are often used to curtail these creatures from harming the crop. The jury is still out, but foods grown with pesticides may be unhealthy. A high-quality organic coffee can provide great flavor, the caffeine pick-me-up, and may be healthier than less expensive brands. Think of yourself as a coffee connoisseur.
Coffee can be a delicious beverage that kick-starts your day. As is, it's a healthy food. Follow these tips to make it more so. You can have your coffee and your health.
To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Fayetteville, Ark.