Is Coffee the New Health Food?

New Harvard research using 126,000 subjects over a period of 18 years indicates that coffee can reduce your risk of diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and colon cancer.  The research indicated that downing one to three cups of caffeinated coffee daily can reduce diabetes risk by single digits.  Those men who drank six or more cups a day slashed their risk by 54% and women’s risk dropped by 30% over java avoiders.  “’Overall, the research shows that coffee is far more healthful than it is harmful.’ Says Tomas DePaulis, PhD. Research scientist at Vanderbilt University’s Institute for Coffee Studies.  “For most people, very little bad comes from drinking it, but a lot of good.’” 

In addition to lowering the risk of Parkinson’s disease, there is also evidence that coffee may help manage asthma and even control attacks when medication is unavailable, stop a headache, boost mood, and even prevent cavities.

Tea is known to be heavy in antioxidants, but coffee beans become strong in antioxidants during the roasting process.  In addition to providing antioxidants, the caffeine in coffee is being used to treat and prevent diseases such as Parkinson’s.  Caffeine stimulates the brain causing a reduction in fatigue and is a powerful aid in enhancing athletic endurance and performance.  

How does coffee affect young minds and bodies?  Very nicely, says DePaulis.  Coffee makes you more alert and able to concentrate on academic tasks.  “’ But it helps kids’ minds in another way.’” It has been found that children who drink coffee with milk each day are less likely to have depression than other children.  In fact, there are no studies that show that coffee consumed in reasonable amounts is harmful to children.

On the flip side, it’s clear that coffee is not for everyone.  In some people it does cause nervousness and rapid heartbeat.  It has also been known to cause a rise in cholesterol levels in some people.

The bottom line: "People who already drink a lot of coffee don't have to feel 'guilty' as long as coffee does not affect their daily life," says Hu. "They may actually benefit from coffee habits in the long run."

(Quotes from WebMD, December 26, 2007)

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