Is Coffee Good or Bad For You??

I love coffee and feel like the day isn't right without having a cup....or four. 

I am constantly coming across articles that contradict each other on whether or not coffee is good for you.  So, thankfully the folks at authoritynutrition.com (who do great work and recommend you follow them) wrote a post ending the confusion and backing it with science.

Here's their findings:

• Coffee contains a small amount of some vitamins and minerals, which add up if you drink many cups per day. It is also high in antioxidants.
• The main active compound in coffee is the stimulant caffeine. It can cause a short-term boost in energy levels, brain function, metabolic rate and exercise performance.
• Studies show that coffee drinkers have a much lower risk of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease in old age, significantly lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes, significantly lower risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer, lower risk of becoming depressed and are significantly less likely to commit suicide....essentially live longer.
• Caffeine can have various negative effects, such as causing anxiety and disrupting sleep, but this depends greatly on the individual.  It is also an addictive substance. It can lead to tolerance and well documented withdrawal symptoms like headache, tiredness and irritability.
• Decaffeinated coffee is made by extracting caffeine from the coffee beans using solvents. Decaf does not have all of the same health benefits as regular coffee.
• It is important not to put sugar or a chemical-laden creamer in your coffee. Brewing with a paper filter can get rid of a cholesterol-raising compound called Cafestol.

So here's to coffee...and to me and you drinking it....a lot....everyday :)