Health Benefits of Caffeine

 

Health Benefits Of Caffeine

Caffeine is generally extracted from coffee beans, although it is also found in tea. Caffeine acts as a stimulant of the central nervous system. Studies indicate that consuming caffeine in the right amount may reduce the risk of major ailments including Alzheimer's disease. Though there is much debate concerning the consumption of caffeine, it is considered as one of the most easily available natural compounds for better health. Here is why you should consider consuming it on a regular basis.

#1 Improves Memory

Caffeine has a direct connection with the brain. It helps in improving memory and reduce the risk of degenerative diseases including Alzheimer's. The neuroprotective benefit of caffeine is well studied to help treat patients with Alzheimer's. The alkaloid compound induces the brain power and increases cognition. Consuming a 200 mg pill of caffeine is known to show visible results in boosting memory. It also reduces stress and increases reacting time, thereby promoting overall brain health. If you are looking for an ultimate memory enhancer, get a daily dose of caffeine.

Another study showed the combined effect of caffeine and L-theanine in increasing cognitive performance and enhancing mood. Individuals who consumed both caffeine and L-theanine were found to have better visual information processing, word recognition, and mood as compared to those who consumed caffeine alone.

#2 Promotes Heart Health

People suffering from cardiac arrhythmia (unrhythmic heartbeat) have reported improvement with the use of caffeine. Previously, it was believed that the stimulating property of caffeine is dangerous for patients with irregular heart rate, but now it is found that caffeine actually reduces the risk of such a condition.

A study conducted at Kaiser Permanente Division of Research in Oakland, CA showed there is 18% reduction in the rate of hospitalization for heart arrhythmia patients with the moderate consumption of caffeine. Not only this, caffeine is known to boost overall heart health. It has an ability to reduce the risk of stroke by as much as 22%.

#3 Helps To Prevent Cancer

The natural everyday ingredient is not only useful in combating heart issues and brain degenerative diseases but also helps in the prevention of a number of cancers.

People who consume caffeine or caffeinated beverages have reduced their risk for melanoma. It also reduces the risk of oral cancer by as much as 50%. Apart from this, caffeine may also prevent colon, liver and lung cancer.

A regular intake of the caffeine protects women from uterine, endometrial and breast cancer while keeping prostate cancer at bay in men. The neuroprotective benefit of caffeine helps in reducing brain degeneration and brain cancer. It reduces the occurrence of glioma -a malignant tumor that starts in the spine or the brain.

#4 Increases Endurance

Caffeine is extremely useful for an effective workout. It increases muscle endurance and makes exercising easier. When consumed along with carbohydrates, it assists in replenishing the glycogen levels in the muscles during a strenuous workout. Athletes who consume a mix of caffeine and carbs have more stamina than those who consume carbs alone. Although caffeine may boost your energy levels, it is recommended not to consume more than 400 mg of it before a workout. It may increase the already increased blood pressure from exercising and can be harmful.

Consuming a moderate amount of caffeine or caffeinated beverages also reduces muscle pain and soreness. If you ever did strength training, you will probably know about the muscle pain and soreness that comes with it. Studies show that caffeine has an incredible ability to reduce pain. When caffeine is used as an ingredient in pain relievers, it can cut in half the time that it takes to experience relief.  

In addition to the above health and neuroprotective benefit of caffeine, it is also known to ease asthma by opening up airways. The alkaloid compound also reduces the risk of kidney stones.

Caffeine, like any other nutrient, should be taken in moderation. Consuming excessive amounts of anything, even water, can be dangerous.  Using a large amount of caffeine in a short period of time can be harmful.

Excessive caffeine may interfere with sleep, thereby making you feel exhausted. It is better to talk with your doctor; especially if you already have health issues that may cause a negative interaction, before adding caffeine to your regiment.

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The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA (U.S. Food & Drug Administration).