If you enjoy coffee on a regular basis, take comfort in knowing that this aromatic brew is full of antioxidants, according to physician Donald Henrud of the Mayo Clinic. Antioxidants are substances that support the immune system and help protect your cells' DNA from damage. Coffee beans are the roasted seeds of the subtropical coffee bush and contain around 2,000 constituents, including antioxidants, vitamin E, caffeic acid and potassium. Ask your physician if coffee is appropriate for you.
Description
The evergreen coffee bush grows in subtropical regions in the countries of Vietnam, Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia and India, to name a few. The fruits of the coffee bush, called cherries, contain green seeds or beans, which are dried and roasted. According to the Coffee Association of Canada, a coffee plant must be four or five years old before it produces beans. Each bush can produce enough beans for one to two pounds of roasted coffee annually.
Immune System
During its normal processes, the immune system throws off molecules that can cause cell damage, or oxidation. The production of these reactive constituents increases with aging or when inflammation is present. Antioxidants support immune-system functioning by protecting cells from the damaging effects of oxidation, according to a 2002 article in "Indian Journal of Experimental Biology." Coffee has abundant antioxidants that help balance the immune system, such as the hydroxycinnamic acids family, consisting of caffeic, chlorogenic and ferrulic acids. Moderately roasted coffee retains the highest level of antioxidants, according to a 2005 review in the "British Journal of Nutrition." Please discuss all medical and nutrition questions with your health care provider.
Caffeine
Coffee contains caffeine, a naturally-occurring stimulant that is also found in chocolate, tea and yerba mate. Caffeine is often found in over-the-counter cold and headache drugs because of its medicinal effects. According to herbalist Michael Castleman in "The New Healing Herbs," caffeine is a bronchodilator that acts as a decongestant. In addition, the combination of aspirin and caffeine provides better pain relief than aspirin alone, writes Castleman. Consult with your physician about using coffee medicinally.
Safety
Over the years, coffee has been at the center of numerous debates about health risks. The scientific consensus at this point, according to the National Institutes of Health, is that coffee causes little or no negative risk to most people. No evidence exists that coffee causes cancer of any kind. If you are pregnant, nursing or have health concerns, speak with your doctor about drinking coffee. When drinking unfiltered coffee, such as Turkish coffee, be aware that it can raise LDL or "bad" cholesterol. Using a paper filter will remove most of the compounds that elevate LDL cholesterol. Nervousness, insomnia, heart palpitations and heartburn can be side effects of coffee consumption.
References
- Mayo Clinic; Medical Edge Newspaper Column; Coffee in Moderation May Offer Health Benefits; Donald Hensrud; March 2010
- "Indian Journal of Experimental Biology"; Immune System and Antioxidants, Especially Those Derived from Indian Medicinal Plants; T. P. Devasagayam; June 2002
- Coffee Association of Canada: About Coffee
- National Institutes of Health; Concerned about Coffee?; August 2009
