We often hear people saying they ‘need a caffeine boost’ or they ‘have had too much caffeine for one day’ and it can regularly be received with negative connotations.
However, more and more research is coming forward to suggest caffeine can actually be beneficial for our health.
Researchers have observed that small doses of caffeine consumed one hour before exercise can improve your performance and may increase the use of fat as fuel – win win!
Additionally, recent research has shown you may be at a lower risk of heart disease if you drink between one and four cups of coffee each day and similarly, this can also help to protect against diabetes. Along with these medical benefits, a study from Harvard School of Public Health has also suggested drinking between two to four cups of coffee a day may reduce suicide risks in adults, implying benefits to our wellbeing too.
But we should not just talk about coffee here. Did you know that tea leaves actually contain more caffeine than coffee beans before they are brewed? (However, once prepared tea is often more diluted than coffee!) And not to mention certain fizzy drinks, energy drinks… and even chocolate!
Of course, it is not all positive, there is always a catch! We must remember caffeine is a natural stimulant which can be addictive and can have negative effects on your sleep pattern and on anxiety.
However, as with most things in life, when consumed in moderation and with a healthy balance there seems to be as many pros as cons, if not more!.. So go on, go and stick the kettle on!
https://authoritynutrition.com/what-is-caffeine/
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/271707.php
https://www.theguardian.com/notesandqueries/query/0,5753,-25502,00.html