The Effect of Caffeine: What Coffee Does to Your Body

Whether it is at home or on the go, at work, with a group of friends, or when you’re by yourself reading your favorite book, the truth is that coffee consumption is implicit in our daily routines.

On National Coffee Day, here are four health benefits of this popular drink and the reasons why you should drink coffee in moderation.

The Effect of Caffeine – Coffee – on Your Health

1. Contains Essential Nutrients

A cup of black brewed coffee (8 fl oz) (240g) contains the following nutrients:

• Calories: 2
• Protein: 0 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0 grams
• Fiber: 0 grams
• Sugar: 0 grams
• Sodium: 4.8 ml
• Calcium: 4.8 mg
• Choline: 6.24 mg
• Caffeine: 96 mg
• Magnesium: 7.2 mg
• Phosphorus P: 7.2 mg
• Potassium: 118 mg

For more information on the nutrients of brew coffee, click here.

2. May Help You Live Longer

Along with plant-based foods like fruits and vegetables, coffee is one of the top sources of antioxidants and is related to longevity.

Antioxidants are natural molecules that help the body neutralize the free radicals aimed at oxidative stress and protect your body from aging.

Two of the antioxidants found in coffee, hydrocinnamic acids and polyphenols, may help to reduce the risk of different health conditions like type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, liver or neurological diseases and depression. The effect of caffeine may also play a role in supporting heart health and reducing inflammation, contributing to this protective benefit.

In the following video, Dr. Scott A. Davis, MD, FACC, talks about a new study using artificial intelligence and the association between coffee and the low risk of heart failure.

3. Improves Physical Performance

Studies suggest that a low-to-moderate coffee intake before exercise may improve athletes’ physical performance across a range of sports such as endurance, strength, or high-intensity training. This includes those not so accustomed to exercising. This performance boost is largely attributed to the effect of caffeine on the central nervous system and muscles.

4. May Enhance Brain Function and Cognitive Aspects

Along with physical performance comes the aspect of brain function and cognition. Caffeine is a natural compound that stimulates the central nervous system, heart and muscles.

After consumption, when caffeine reaches your brain and acts with adenosine, it can lead to boosted productivity, improving aspects like general mental function, mood, memory and learning, greater concentration and attention. This stimulating effect of caffeine is one of the reasons coffee is so commonly associated with productivity and alertness.

Consume In Moderation

Although coffee is associated with some health benefits, it should be consumed in moderation and avoid sugar intake excess on elaborated coffee drinks.

Side effects:

• Insomnia
• Tachycardia or fast heartbeat
• Jittery
• Excessive urination
• Stomach discomfort
• Increase anxiety
• May raise blood pressure

These side effects may differ depending on individual tolerance and consumption patterns.

Additionally, individuals taking certain medications or with certain health conditions may need to avoid caffeine consumption. Please talk to your doctor about any interactions you may have. If you're unsure how the effect of caffeine might influence a medical condition, a healthcare provider can help guide you.

Other Ways To Enjoy Coffee

Coffee pairs well with many recipes–and sometimes even tastes great as an ingredient in other foods! Make the most of your coffee with the recipes below:

• Coffee-Rubbed Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Avocado-Cilantro Slaw
• Coffee Frappe

The BHealthy section of the Baptist Health website includes a variety of helpful articles, recipes and educational resources to help you with a good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle.