How to drink coffee healthily?

Coffee, when consumed correctly and at the right times, benefits health. It stimulates the central nervous system, helping to fight fatigue and increase energy.

There are certain things that should be either done or avoided when drinking coffee to maximize its benefits, according to health news platforms Healthline.

Avoid adding sugar

Adding sugar to coffee can lead to fat accumulation and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, fatty liver, and diabetes. Excessive consumption of sugar can also cause chronic inflammation and elevated blood pressure, compromising cardiovascular health.

Thus, those who enjoy sweetened coffee should either measure their sugar intake or use pre-measured packets, typically one teaspoon each, to prevent excessive sugar consumption.

Add cinnamon and cocoa

Cinnamon, a flavorful herb, when added to coffee, reduces its bitterness and is beneficial for health. It offers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, which help protect the heart and brain from oxidative stress and lower blood sugar levels.

A cup of coffee. Illustration photo by Pexels

Cocoa, rich in components that lower blood pressure and alleviate depression, is also a plant-based source of iron and antioxidants.

Additionally, adding ginger to coffee can provide anti-inflammatory benefits, muscle pain relief, digestive support, and cholesterol reduction.

Avoid creamer

While creamer has a low-fat content, it is recommended to avoid it as it diminishes coffee’s inherent benefits. Substitute creamer with milk to benefit from its healthy calcium, which reduces the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Avoid drinking coffee on an empty stomach

Drinking coffee on an empty stomach can increase stomach acid production. This may lead to heartburn, diarrhea, nausea, and chest discomfort. It also impairs blood sugar control, heightening diabetes risk over time, according to health news platform Health.com.

It is thus advised to consume a light meal before drinking coffee.

Avoid excessive consumption

Caffeine increases alertness by inhibiting adenosine, a brain chemical that induces fatigue. However, high doses can cause anxiety and jitteriness. Consuming 1,000 mg or more of caffeine daily can induce stress and restlessness.

Excessive caffeine intake also prolongs the onset of sleep and can reduce total sleep time, particularly in older adults. Monitoring caffeine intake and timing is crucial to avoid adversely affecting sleep quality.