Can You Drink Coffee Guilt-Free?
By Genevieve Cunningham
Coffee. If that word alone makes you smile or get just a little excited, you might be addicted to this super popular bean turned beverage. When it comes to coffee, there are a million different opinions. Everything is debated. People argue over how much you should drink. People argue over the caffeine. People argue over the quality of a particular brew. In all of the fuss, it's actually incredibly hard to separate the fact from the fiction. If you love your morning cup of hot java, take a look at why you may be able to enjoy your morning jolt completely guilt-free.
Worried About the Caffeine?
Caffeine is a stimulant. That's the whole reason that we like it so much, right? Stimulants wake you up and give you energy, but they may also lead to a raised heart rate, a jittery body, and headaches. For most people, small amounts of caffeine aren't a concern. A cup or two of coffee per day simply isn't enough stimulation to cause problems. The key is to know your tolerance and keep your consumption under that mark.
Worried About the Calories?
A lot of people equate coffee with big calories. We're advised not to drink our calories, right? But coffee, all by itself, contains very few. The big calories come into play when we add sugar and whip cream and drizzles of caramel and chocolate. If you're worried about consuming too many calories, just simplify your coffee as much as possible, and you can drink your cup without affecting your diet.
Worried About the Addiction?
As far as addictions go, coffee is really low down on the list. It's true that you may get addicted to the caffeine and the habit, but it's unlikely that this particular addiction will do any particular harm. If the thought of being addicted bothers you, then skip the coffee. But if this mild form of addiction is OK with you, then it's probably safe to enjoy your morning drink.
Coffee really isn't all bad. Though it can have some bad side effects when consumed in large quantities, it's generally safe for most people. Drink with caution, get to know your body, and you can enjoy your hot coffee without guilt or concern.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lake Worth, Fla.