What Happens To Your Body When You Drink Black Coffee
For most coffee drinkers, there is a clear evolution over time. In your early days—maybe in college—your daily java was likely filled with milk and sugar. As you started actually to enjoy the taste of coffee, you gradually removed additives. And eventually, you grew accustomed to black coffee since it didn't need anything additional to make it drinkable. If you're in this last stage, you're in luck: black coffee on its own, whether hot or iced, is beneficial for our health. Here, amazing things that happen to your body when you drink black coffee, and for even more healthy tips, be sure to check out our list of The 7 Healthiest Foods to Eat Right Now.
You may have a lower risk of obesity.
Dr. Helen Goldstein, the director of physical therapy for FlexIt, Inc., says regular coffee consumption on its own could lower our risk of obesity. How come? She credits the strong antioxidants and plant-based micronutrients called polyphenols. Specifically, chlorogenic acid is the superstar here since it has been shown to reduce visceral abdominal fat.
"Visceral fat has been linked to increased risk of developing metabolic disturbances such as type 2 diabetes. Therefore, black coffee provides not only aesthetic benefits for our body but also helps prevent some serious health conditions," she says.
Here's why this is The Best Way to Drink Coffee for Weight Loss, According to a Nutritionist.
You may improve your mood.
If you wake up on the wrong side of the bed, roll on over and get to your kitchen for a cup of joe. As Dr. Goldstein explains, there's research to support black coffee is a mood booster. As she explained, higher overall mood and alertness and lower levels of mental fatigue were reported by participants in a research study.
"Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors in our brain, preventing the typical feeling of tiredness that adenosine causes," she shares. "However, it is important to consider that consistent coffee consumption can lead to addiction, and the effects of going without it for even a day can exaggerate feelings of fatigue, as well as headaches."
No wonder it's considered the One Major Side Effect of Drinking Coffee Every Day, Says Science.
You'll receive a boost of antioxidants.
Fun fact: one cup of black coffee may contain more polyphenol antioxidants than green tea, black tea, and cocoa, says Dr. Josh Axe, D.N.M., C.N.S, D.C., the founder of Ancient Nutrition.
"Coffee made from good quality organic beans is an excellent source of antioxidants, including chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid," he adds. "Both of these antioxidants help to cells against damage and oxidative stress, which is critical for preventing disease."
Here's Why You Need Antioxidants In Your Diet.
You will be more alert.
If you're on the struggle bus for productivity and delivering on your work demands, chugging a cup of black coffee could be a great way to wake up and focus. As Dr. Axe explains, studies show that caffeine from coffee enhances performance and contributes to higher concentration and stamina.
You will have better blood flow.
Drinking black coffee helps to increase blood flow to the brain, which may benefit cognitive function and have a protective effect against memory impairment, Dr. Axe says. Studies suggest that consuming caffeine from coffee may help memory restoration and protect the brain from neurological conditions.
Your workouts may be more effective.
Weight loss coach Stephanie Mansour says black coffee actually can allow your body to perform better when working out.
"Because it increases the amount of adrenaline in the blood, your body can be more prepared for exercise," she continues. "It also helps break down body fat that is stored. This gives your body more fuel for fitness!"
If you love to drink black coffee but you're unsure of how much is considered too much, Here's How Much Coffee You Can Have in a Day, According to the Mayo Clinic.
