Is Coffee Healthy?

August 24th, 2009 | By customizedworkoutplans

Coffee is healthy…When consumed in moderation.

Coffee contains caffeine which is a natural diuretic.  You should consume coffee in moderation otherwise you can feel the effects of overdosing on coffee.

Aa cup of coffee provides moderate amounts of caffeine, which may help you to increase your performance as well as exercise for longer before exhaustion.

After drinking a cup of coffee, caffeine is rapidly and efficiently absorbed from the digestive system and starts to work in the body just 20 minutes after consumption and the effects may last for several hours. (Fredholm et.al 1999., Nehlig et al. 1992)

The stimulating effects of caffeine have been extensively studied. They are due to caffeine’s ability to block adenosine receptors. Adenosine inhibits the release of most brain excitatory neurotransmitters; and thus eventually results in reduced arousal and increased sleep.

Caffeine works by blocking the adenosine receptors and increases the activity of the central nervous system, which improves mental alertness. (Nehlig et al. 1992., Fredholm et al. 1999., Davis et al, 2003., Daly et al. 2004; Fisone et al. 2004., Tieges, 2007)

Coffee does warrant some cautions, however. Both regular and decaf coffee relax the muscle that keeps stomach acids from rising into the throat, so those with heartburn or reflux disease (GERD) are encouraged to avoid or strictly limit coffee. People with trouble sleeping should limit or avoid caffeinated coffee.

Caffeine and Fluid Requirements

Athletes competing in hot climates, where the risk of dehydration is high, are often advised to increase their intake of fluid, but to avoid caffeinated beverages such as tea and coffee because of their diuretic effect.  It is recommended that you consume water before, during and after exercise.

Some coffee are healthier then others.  When looking to grab your next cup of coffee, try to skip the mocha latte with whipped cream.

Starbucks – What to order (our favorites)
Grande Iced Brewed Coffee with Skim milk – 90 calories / 21 carbs / 20 g. sugar
Grande Caffè Latte – 130 calories / 19 carbs / 18 g. sugar

Dunkin Donuts – What to order (our favorites)
Medium Coffee with Skim milk and Splenda – 30 calories / 6 carbs / 2 g. sugar
Medium Iced Coffee with Skim milk and Splenda- 40 calories / 8 carbs / 2 g. sugar

Tips to slash the Coffee Calories

1. Use splenda or a sugar alternative in moderation.
2. Choose skim milk with no whipped cream.
3. Don’t choose Venti, extra large sizes. Chances are a medium will satisfy you and leaving you with ample amounts of caffeine.
4. Avoid carmel and high fructose additives.