As a busy dad, physician, and someone who thrives on staying active, I rely (big time) on caffeine to give me a much-needed boost. If you’re a fellow caffeine aficionado like me, you’ll be glad to know that the research behind the health benefits of caffeine is stronger than ever (pun intended). 

What are the health benefits of caffeine? Find out what the latest research is saying about the health benefits of caffeine and learn more about alternatives to your usual cup of joe.

Caffeine Health Benefits 

Caffeine – which is naturally found in the leaves, seeds, or fruit of more than 60 plant species – contains antioxidants and other substances that have been shown to reduce inflammation and protect against certain diseases, like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease.

Caffeine affects brain receptors in a way that has been linked to slowing down the mental decline that comes with age, and it has been suggested that it can enhance some thinking skills. Interestingly enough, it’s also been studied to help those with Parkinson’s control their movements better.

There has also been research pointing to coffee-drinkers being less likely to get type 2 diabetes, because caffeine is believed to help your body process glucose (sugar) better.

And, for women, there’s been research that suggests drinking a few cups of coffee per day is associated with lowered stroke risk. 

Caffeine has also been studied in relation to cancer; studies have suggested that coffee may lower the risk of several types of cancer, including neck, head, colorectal, breast and liver cancer. 

Caffeine in Healthy Amounts

It’s important to note that too much caffeine or consuming caffeinated drinks laden with sugar and other additives can cause other health concerns, like jitters, increased heart rate, stomach irritation, anxiety, dehydration, and more. The FDA recommends that healthy adults limit their caffeine intake to a maximum of 400 milligrams (mg) a day, which is about 4 or 5 cups of coffee.

Now that we know about some of the powerful health benefits of caffeine, you may want to explore other avenues of consuming it besides your average cup of joe – whether it gives you the jitters or if you simply aren’t a fan of the taste without a bunch of cream and sugar!

Caffeine isn’t just Coffee

Good Day Chocolate Energy supplements are my personal favorite way to consume caffeine. Not only is it tastier and healthier than conventional energy drinks, but it includes a B-vitamin blend that gives a nutritional boost and naturally energizes the body. With these, too, you can enjoy a piece or two in the afternoon, knowing that it is a smooth, controllable way to get a bit of caffeine in before it gets too late in the day (one piece has 20mg of caffeine, green tea and B vitamins, and four pieces are equivalent to a cup of coffee).

So, there you have it: caffeine can be good for you, and the more we learn about it, the more we’re seeing a wealth of health benefits! Here’s to having your caffeine and enjoying it, too.

Please consult with your physician prior to adding any supplement to your routine.