Germans drink an average of 166 liters of coffee per capita per year. Caffeine is one of the most commonly consumed psychoactive substances worldwide. The bitter, white, crystalline alkaloid is found in the seeds, leaves and fruits of plants such as coffee, tea, cocoa and cola. Scientific research shows that caffeine increases mental alertness, cognitive function and physical performance. improved.
The health effects of caffeine
The health effects of caffeine have been studied over many years. The majority of these studies have focused on the effects of caffeine on neurocognitive health, cardiovascular health, physical performance, and fertility. In addition to these improvements, caffeine may also reduce the risk of certain diseases, such as Parkinson's disease, type II diabetes and liver disease. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.
Coffee improves neurocognitive performance
Caffeine may improve mental alertness and cognitive function. In one study with older adults, caffeine improved alertness. Caffeine has also been shown to have an effect on cognitive performance and cognitive reserve, which may reduce the risk of dementia and Alzheimer's disease. ...and...
Coffee increases physical performance
Caffeine improves physical performance and has cardioprotective effects during intense exercise. In one study with cyclists, caffeine improved the 16 km time trial and performance. In addition, an ingestion of caffeine shows an Improvement in running performance, attention and reaction time..
Coffee may protect against Parkinson's disease
Parkinson's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects movement and balance. A metastudy has shown that caffeine has a neuroprotective effect against dopaminergic neurodegeneration and therefore reduces the Parkinson's disease risk may be reduced. However, it is important to note that correlation does not equal causation. Other factors such as genetics, lifestyle and environment may also play a role.
Coffee prevents type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the way the body metabolizes sugar. High blood sugar levels can negatively affect certain causes of aging. A recent review showed that Caffeine can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Does coffee have side effects?
The stimulating effect of caffeine can temporarily increase blood pressure by about ten to 20 mmHg (millimeters of mercury) in occasional coffee drinkers. However, with regular consumption of caffeine, the body gets used to it and, according to the German Heart Foundation, blood pressure increases no longer occur or are smaller after about two to three weeks.
How much coffee is too much coffee?
The German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) states that up to 200 milligrams of caffeine as a single dose and 400 milligrams (equivalent to about 5-6 espressos) spread over the day are safe for a healthy adult.
