Coffee is a favorite beverage of many people worldwide. Its delicious taste and mesmerizing aroma can have a soothing effect on one’s senses. In addition, coffee is an excellent source of caffeine and contains many essential nutrients, including riboflavin, pantothenic acid, manganese, and niacin. When had in moderation, it can work wonders in managing several ailments. Thus, we can say that coffee and health go hand in hand. Here are six health benefits of coffee.

1. Boosts energy and performance
Caffeine in coffee acts as a natural stimulant. It travels to the brain when absorbed into the bloodstream and positively affects the central nervous system. And since the central nervous system controls most of the body and mind functions, one experiences a boost in energy and performance. According to one study, coffee helps improve memory, mood, energy, and mental health when had in moderation.

2. Helps burn fat
If someone wants to shed a few pounds, drinking coffee can help them do so. The beverage can increase fat burn and boost a person’s metabolic rate, which is essential for maintaining or losing weight. In addition, coffee also reduces the appetite to a certain extent, so one is less likely to munch on snacks in between meals.

3. Lowers risk of neurological diseases and cancer
Drinking coffee regularly may also help decrease the risk of several diseases, including neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and certain liver, colon, breast, and rectum cancers. With a lower risk of these ailments, the beverage may help individuals live longer.

4. Lowers risk of type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is characterized by high levels of blood sugar caused by insulin resistance. Thankfully, coffee has health benefits for diabetics as well. A 2009 study indicates that people who drink coffee in moderation may reduce their risk of the disease. However, the role of medication cannot be ignored in managing diabetes.

5. Curbs depression
The caffeine in coffee can help stimulate one’s mood, thus playing a critical role in curbing depression. In multiple studies, it was found that people who drank four or more cups of coffee every day had a lower risk of depression and were less likely to take the wrong step.

6. Reduces the risk of heart disease
Believe it or not, coffee and heart health are linked. According to the findings of a 2012 study, people who drank moderate amounts of coffee had a lower risk of heart failure. A study published in the American Heart Association Journal also found that drinking one or more cups of coffee daily can reduce the risk of heart-related diseases significantly.

Coffee consumption can affect everyone differently. For some, even one cup per day can provide many health benefits. However, excessive intake can cause side effects like increased heart rate, blood pressure, anxiety, and trouble falling asleep. The secret behind coffee and health is to stick to moderate consumption while skipping cream and sugar, thus enjoying the beverage in its healthiest form.