It is also important to remember that ‘correlation does not equal causation.’ In other words, there may be something in coffee, for example, caffeine or cafeic acid or other coffee bean ingredients, that slows down Alzheimer’s pathology. Just this past week, espresso bean extracts were shown to reduce the formation of tangles that kill off nerve cells in Alzheimer’s.
On the other hand, it may be that the type of person who drinks more coffee is more intellectually stimulated, socially interactive, or physically active, all of which can reduce the risk for Alzheimer’s disease.”
“I’m a huge fan of caffeine. Caffeine is good for so many things–overall health is one. It slows the development of Alzheimer’s and Dementia. Caffeine also helps improve circulation. I talk to my clients all the time—circulation is key. That’s why we move first thing when we get in the gym because when the circulation is moving it’s flushing toxins. It’s a triple threat. You get oxygen to the muscles, you get nutrients and you flush out the toxins. For me–that’s where I make the connection.
Now looking if it’s bad for you, obviously, the devil is in the dose. If you’re consuming 1200 milligrams a day, you’ll probably see some negative side effects. Another negative, different types of coffee can affect cholesterol levels. One coffee sure, two, that’s fine but if you want five you may want to pump the breaks.
For caffeine, you have to look at the dose and the time of the dose to maximize efficiency. I personally use a pre-workout when I lift early… To answer your question—yes, it has health benefits. Obviously if taken too much, too often it can have less desirable side effects. It’s a known performance enhancer when used judiciously when timed right and when dosed right.”
“Coffee is good! It’s the largest source of polyphenols and hydrocinnamic acids in the human diet. These are powerful antioxidants that fight harmful free radicals, protecting our cells from damage. Studies also show black coffee lengthens telomeres, a reliable marker of healthy aging. In a study of Japanese females, coffee drinkers showed reduced photo aging. As the saying goes, everything is in moderation and coffee is no exception. Overconsumption can lead to dehydration and loss of beauty sleep. Just don’t overdo it.”
Lily Mazzarella, MS, CNS, herbalist and nutritionist
“Coffee, especially one that’s been properly sourced to address environmental and social impacts of the trade, and prepared to filter out LDL-raising diterpenes, is associated with a host of health benefits—though the research on this is ongoing and variable. The benefits and downsides of coffee are not one-size-fits-all.