You already know that coffee is one of the most consumed beverages in the world. It's even said that, after water, it's the liquid we enjoy most, and we like it more every day. All this is because, thanks to scientific studies and research in medicine, we realize that coffee has more benefits and qualities than negative or harmful effects. All cultures around the world, from their beginnings to the present day, and especially our Latin American continent, have been distinguished by their superstitious and cautious nature. And since this has been passed down from generation to generation, such customs have affected coffee since its origins. Despite being so popular, it has always faced enemies who have sought to discredit this delicious beverage.
From my childhood to my adult years, I witnessed doctors banning coffee, not because it altered blood pressure, but rather because they considered it poisonous. Yet, even so, our parents taught us to drink tinto morning, noon, and night; even adults accompanied coffee with a cigarette. Many myths reach us, and we accept and live with them. This happens with coffee and all the ideas we've always been taught about it. That if we drink coffee after dinner, we stay awake and don't sleep all night; that consuming too much coffee causes gastritis, infertility, affects bones and the heart, raises blood pressure, causes cancer, diminishes intelligence, destroys memory, damages the kidneys, impairs proper digestion, and causes Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. It is also said that it is an addictive drug and accelerates the onset of catastrophic and degenerative diseases.
Thanks to current medical studies and research, all these fears born of superstition and a lack of research are gradually being demystified, simply because we believe everything we're told. The truth is that coffee brings us more good than harm, and as with any normal product, even water, which is so important for our health, if we drink it excessively and not in moderation, it can affect our vitality.
Coffee doesn't disrupt sleep. It's been proven that caffeine increases alertness, improves nighttime performance, reduces fatigue, sharpens mental capacity, and keeps us active in our daily responsibilities. However, whether drinking coffee after lunch disrupts our sleep is unproven, as many of us have a cup of coffee before bed and sleep through the night.
You know that antioxidants are substances that help strengthen cells. Well, according to research, coffee is an excellent antioxidant that protects them. It's also proven that caffeine alleviates the symptoms that affect Parkinson's patients.
Coffee contributes to good digestion and stimulates gastric secretion, except in cases where you suffer from gastroesophageal reflux disease or stomach pain, in which case you should avoid coffee, chocolate, tea, or cola drinks, among others.
Regarding the cardiovascular system, it has been proven that although coffee consumption slightly alters blood pressure, it does not necessarily lead to a person suffering from it. Older adults are already aware that doctors allow us to drink up to five cups of well-brewed coffee a day in a clean container. Regarding the heart, medical studies have also proven that moderate coffee consumption reduces the risk of heart disease, regulates cholesterol levels, and helps improve degenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.
The World Health Organization classifies coffee as a harmless beverage. If consumed in moderation, it reduces the risk of cancer, unless the liquid is boiling hot. Remember that any hot beverage over 65°C, if consumed consistently, can cause esophageal cancer.
Coffee consumption in women does not cause infertility; however, doctors recommend a cup a day as a precaution. In older women, drinking up to five cups a day does not affect their bones; moreover, women today consume significant amounts of calcium, which helps control osteoporosis. And, as far as the kidneys are concerned, caffeine has diuretic effects that help eliminate fluids.
Finally, keep in mind, dear reader, that the key to harnessing coffee 's potential as a healthy beverage lies in moderation. Don't forget the many benefits it provides. Consumed in good amounts, it allows us to think more quickly and clearly and improves bodily coordination; it facilitates memorization, improves attention and concentration. And depending on where you are, you can enjoy it hot or cold, with sugar if you prefer—although good coffee, thanks to its splendid flavors and aromas, doesn't require it. Most importantly, the love of coffee doesn't cause addiction; in fact, anyone who consumes it excessively and intends to stop drinking it will experience symptoms of malaise and anxiety that disappear within a few days of quitting.