Java Jive

Mmmmm coffee! Java. Cup of joe. No matter what you call it, you've got to love it!  And no matter how you take it: black or con leche, it just doesn't seem right to start your day off without it.  Or for some of us, to have a cup constantly by your side like a loyal companion.  Yes, I love coffee first thing in the morning with breakfast or on my commute into work (before I worked from home).  I love coffee in the middle of the afternoon whether working, reading a book or just stalking people on facebook.  And I love coffee at night after a satisfying meal, along with a little something sweet of course. 

You can call me an addict, but I'm fine with that, because coffee is good for you!  Yes, there are those pesky haters that say coffee is a bad for your health, but to them I say: psshhht!  Here are three reasons why coffee drinking is all-good.

1. Improved Cognitive Function: Many human studies have shown that caffeine helps to improve aspects of cognition such as memory and reactions times. How? Caffeine causes the amounts of the neurotransmitters norepinephrine and dopamine to increase, leading to enhanced firing of neurons.

2. Natural Laxative: Okay, sorry if this is TMI, but it's true!  Coffee makes you poop and therefore can help keep your digestive system regular.  That's the reason why it is traditionally always offered after a meal (you learn something new every day).

3. Contains Antioxidants: Antioxidants are protective of things like cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes.  In the Western diet, coffee is the main source of antioxidants!  Studies have shown that people get more antioxidants from coffee than from fruits and veggies combined.  Sad, but true!  

So there you have it! Straight from the dietitian's mouth, go grab yourself a cup of joe!  Just do me a favor and skip all the whipped cream, syrups and sprinkles that will negate all its healthy properties!

Healthfully Yours,

Meghan