Coffee Risks and Benefits
The debate goes on as to whether coffee wears a white or black hat. Is it actually good for you, or is it to be avoided? The jury is still out, but here are some of the potential benefits and risks of coffee consumption:
Possible Benefits of Coffee Consumption:
• For men at least, coffee helps prevent gallstones and gallbladder disease
• It has been reported to increase alertness, postpones muscle fatigue and enhance endurance
• Studies suggest that coffee may improve short-term recall
• There is some evidence that coffee could reduce the risk of cirrhosis of the liver among heavy drinkers of alcohol
• At least one study found that coffee has more antioxidant activity than red wine, green or black tea, or orange juice, which indicates that it might protect against free radical damage to tissues
Possible Risks of Coffee Consumption:
• Coffee consumption can Increase blood pressure, so may be ill advised for people who are at risk for high blood pressure
• Coffee can keep you awake at night (surprise!) and can also increase anxiety and irritability
• Coffee has been reported to worsen PMS symptoms for some women
• Some health experts are concerned that coffee may increase blood levels of homocysteine and the associated risk of cardiovascular disease
• There has been concern that coffee could contribute to or increase the risk of stomach ulcers and certain cancers, but recent studies haven’t confirmed such risks.
