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Coffee and Health: Separating Myths from Facts in Speciality Coffee

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Lost Sheep Marketing Manager

Monday, 9th September 20244 min read

We know there’s a lot of talk about coffee and its health benefits, not that we’re health professionals, so we would recommend if you’re unsure about whether it’s good for you personally to speak to a health professional. If you want to speak about roasting coffee, then feel free to drop us a message!

Speciality coffee is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a subject of much debate when it comes to its impact on health. With various myths and conflicting information circulating, it’s essential to separate fact from fiction. In this blog post, we will explore the relationship between speciality coffee and health, looking into common myths and highlighting facts that will hopefully open up the conversation on enjoying your favourite speciality coffee and the health benefits that may be involved! 

Here are a few health facts about speciality coffee:

  • One myth surrounding coffee is its dehydrating effect. Contrary to popular belief, moderate coffee consumption does not lead to dehydration. While caffeine is a diuretic, meaning it can increase urine production, studies indicate that the overall fluid balance remains positive when considering the volume of liquid consumed in a cup of coffee. This means your morning cup of speciality coffee could still contribute to your daily hydration goals!
  • Our personal favourite fact is that speciality coffee is packed with antioxidants, which play a crucial role in neutralising harmful free radicals in the body. Some studies have shown that coffee is one of the leading sources of antioxidants in the Western diet. The presence of these antioxidants has been associated with a reduced risk of various diseases, including certain types of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
  • You may have heard the myth that coffee can stunt your growth, but rest assured, it’s simply not true. The belief likely stems from the fact that caffeine can temporarily inhibit calcium absorption. However, the effect is negligible and does not have a long-term impact on bone health or growth. In fact, the calcium content in speciality coffee can contribute to your overall calcium intake.
  • Another common myth suggests that coffee consumption can lead to heart disease. However, the majority of research indicates that moderate coffee consumption is not associated with an increased risk of heart disease. In fact, some studies suggest that coffee may even have a protective effect on heart health, reducing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
  • Several studies have found a link between coffee consumption and a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The compounds found in coffee, such as Chlorogenic acid and caffeine, may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. However, it’s important to note that adding excessive sugar, milk or cream to your coffee can counteract these potential benefits, so it’s best to enjoy your speciality coffee black or with minimal additions. 

When it comes to speciality coffee and health, separating myths from facts is essential. While some misconceptions persist, scientific research overwhelmingly supports the notion that moderate coffee consumption can be part of a healthy lifestyle. From its antioxidant properties to potential cognitive and heart health benefits, speciality coffee offers more than just a flavourful experience. 

We hope that sparks some thought, especially because the overwhelming thought is that coffee is bad for your health, we’re sure it’s no surprise that we’re shouting about how great speciality coffee is – we love it! It’s nice to know that when enjoying a delicious cup of coffee that it’s not as bad as you may have thought before!

Remember, moderation is key when consuming speciality coffee or any caffeinated beverage. As with any dietary concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare professional for personalised advice based on your individual health needs. 

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