October 1st is International Coffee Day

Home Care in Springfield VA

Many American’s love to wake up to a cup of coffee.  For many, it is the perfect drink to enjoy for breakfast and it can boost energy early in the morning.  On October 1st, the world celebrates Home-Care-in-Springfield-VAInternational Coffee Day to recognize this beloved beverage that is enjoyed by many cultures throughout the world.  If your loved one drinks coffee, you may be wondering if it is something that is good for their health.  Depending on the day, it seems like news sources can say both good and bad things about coffee and its affect on health.  Read on to learn some facts about coffee and how your loved one can drink it safely and healthfully.

 

Is drinking coffee good for health?

Studies have shown that coffee can help protect against some very serious medical conditions such as type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, liver disease and liver cancer.  It has also been shown to reduce the risk of depression and improve cognitive function, two benefits that are very important to seniors.  When your loved one drinks their coffee black, it is low in calories and doesn’t include any harmful elements such as fat or sugar.  In addition to these health benefits, drinking coffee is very much a part of our culture.  Your loved one may feel comforted by their morning cup of coffee and feel that it is an important part of their morning routine.  In addition, drinking coffee can be a social experience for many seniors who enjoy meeting friends and loved ones at a local coffeehouse for coffee and conversation.  For these reasons, drinking coffee can be a part of a healthy lifestyle.

 

Does drinking coffee have a downside?

There are some ways that drinking coffee can actually have negative health effects.  Coffee does contain caffeine so it can negatively affect those who are sensitive to it by causing jitteriness and even triggering anxiety.  In addition, drinking too much coffee can affect sleep.  For this reason, it is a great idea to suggest that your loved one limit their coffee intake to 1 or 2 cups a day and to enjoy them in the morning.  Some coffee drinks that are made at coffee shops or restaurants contain sugary syrups, whipped cream, and other unhealthy ingredients.  Drinking these regularly can lead to unwanted weight gain and they are, in general, not the best choices for a healthy diet.

 

If you or an aging loved one are considering home care in Springfield, VA, call the caring staff at Medical Professionals On Call today. 703-273-8818

 

Source:  http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/expert-answers/coffee-and-health/faq-20058339

Michelle DeFilippis