The health benefits of coffee

Coffee is a well-known beverage all over the globe for a large number of health benefits.

Thanks to its high levels of antioxidants and beneficial nutrients, it also appears to be quite healthy. Studies show that people who consume coffee are at much lower risk of some serious diseases.

Here are the 13 main health benefits of coffee, according to Healthline:

1. It can improve energy levels and make you smarter

Caffeine blocks an inhibitory neurotransmitter in your brain, which causes a stimulating effect. This improves energy levels, mood and various aspects of brain function.

2. It can help you burn fat

Some studies show that caffeine can increase fat burning and also the rate of metabolism.

3. It can drastically improve physical performance

Caffeine can increase adrenaline levels and release fatty acids from your adipose tissue. This also leads to noticeable improvements in physical performance.

4. Contains essential nutrients

Coffee contains several important nutrients, including riboflavin, pantothenic acid, manganese, potassium, magnesium and niacin.

5. May lower your risk of type 2 diabetes

Some observational studies show that people who consume coffee have a much lower risk of type 2 diabetes, a serious condition that affects millions of people worldwide.

6. It can protect you from Alzheimer's disease and dementia

People who drink coffee have a much lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s, which is a leading cause of dementia worldwide.

7. May lower Parkinson's risk

People who consume coffee have up to 60% less risk of developing Parkinson's disease, the second most common neurodegenerative disorder.

8. It can protect your liver

People who drink coffee have a much lower risk of cirrhosis, which can be caused by certain diseases that affect the liver.

9. Reduces the risk of depression and makes you feel happier

Coffee seems to reduce the risk of developing depression and can dramatically reduce the risk of suicide.

10. May reduce the risk of some types of cancer

Liver and colorectal cancer are the third and fourth leading causes of cancer death worldwide. Coffee drinkers have a lower risk of contracting these diseases.

11. It does not cause heart disease and can lower the risk of stroke

Coffee can cause a mild increase in blood pressure, which usually decreases over time. Coffee drinkers do not have an increased risk of heart disease and have a slightly lower risk of stroke.

12. It can help you live longer

Some studies show that coffee drinkers live longer and have a lower risk of premature death.

13. The largest source of antioxidants in the western diet

Coffee is rich in powerful antioxidants and many people get more antioxidants from coffee than from fruits and vegetables.