The secret life of coffee
In the past, we have talked about how stretching can be more beneficial in waking you up and giving you a boost than coffee. And we meant it. But let’s face it, most of us could not do without our coffee!
The good news is there are now lots of studies that show that far from being the evil concoction we had been led to believe, coffee can actually be good for you!
Studies suggest that coffee boosts dopamine production, which enhances your mood, and has been shown to reduce the risk of depression. Something in coffee – we don’t know what – lowers your blood sugar levels, reducing the risk of diabetes.
Interestingly, many of the studies have revealed a gender bias in the benefits of coffee. For instance, in men it has been particularly linked with management of uncontrolled movement in Parkinsons disease sufferers and a reduced risk of liver cancer. In women, coffee – and green tea – appear to lower the risk of stroke and cardiovascular disease.
Kahweol and Cafestol are two ingredients in coffee that are believed to be linked to an increase in bad cholesterol. However, they also appear to play a part in reduced risk of cancers such as breast, colon and rectal, as well as having a positive impact on the general health of the liver.
There are a lot of ‘seems’ and ‘linked’ type statements in all these studies – so what should we believe? Well, as with everything, moderation seems to be the key – moderate consumption, which is 1-3 cups per day, seems to provide some positive benefits. And it seems like that is about what most people are drinking. According to Roy Morgan Research Australia, average coffee consumption is 9.2 cups per week.
Of course, drinking plenty of water and getting some fresh air, exercise and keeping up a healthy diet is also always recommended. But the odd cup of coffee won’t do you any harm.
At Precision Health Spine & Sports Clinic we all have a different poison when it comes to coffee. Does that say something about who we are? And what we do? Well, yes, it turns out it does. So – here are some secrets you may not have known about us.
Charbel loves a double Macchiato – people who drink this coffee have no fear of failure. They are bold and confident. Well, that sounds about right!
Taylor’s preferred drink is a Caramel Latte – whilst there are those (many of them in this very clinic) who think this is not a suitable drink for a man, latte drinkers in general are nice people who are hard working, romantic and soft. Sheena is also a latte drinker, but being of a slightly tougher nature takes it without that caramel twist.
Jessica’ preference is for a flat white. These guys are brutally honest traditionalists. Who’d have thought?
Andrew likes his coffee sort and black – suggesting he is a purist with good attention to detail. Not bad traits in a massage therapist!
Sarah has a bit of a soft spot for Vienna coffee. That combination of strong coffee and fluffy cream is a bit of an indulgence, and often means the drinker is soft and fluffy themselves. Hmm, not sure about this one…
Annelise is a fan of the long black with a dash of milk. Indecisive? Maybe. But also busy, with plenty of stamina.
Looks like we have a pretty balanced team here at Precision. And now that we’ve told you our secrets, next time you are in the Clinic let us know what your favourite coffee is – we’d love to hear your secrets!
