Coffee

Nothing else makes the mornings better than having a lip-smacking cup of espresso coffee. The stove top coffee maker has brought espresso coffee into our homes and into our kitchens. You don’t have to go to a coffee bar anymore to enjoy a great tasting cup of coffee. The question is, is drinking coffee doing you any harm or any good? There are many studies which have been conducted on this subject and some display the positive effects of drinking coffee whilst others display the negative effects of drinking coffee.

Stove top espresso makers make coffee that tastes so great that everyone would like to have a cup or two or more daily. So what are the safe drinking levels? To date it is not known for sure what the “safe” level of drinking coffee is. However, it has been reported that 4 to 5 cups a day is perfectly safe for people who are healthy. Sometimes it may bestow health benefits and help you in overcoming anxiety and depression.

Over the years, we have been told to stay away from caffeine, particularly coffee and it was also classified as a drug. However, people did not realize that there are many positive effects of caffeine as well as the negative ones. Enjoying a cup of espresso can assist in preventing oxidation which is a process that damages the body’s cells and speeds the aging process.

Regular consumption of espresso coffee made by a stovetop coffee maker also has been reported to reduce the risk of developing Parkinson’s disease. It has been found that a person who drinks coffee on a regular basis is less likely to have Parkinson’s disease. Surprisingly, caffeine has also been reported to help open people’s airways and may improve the condition of asthma patients.

A prospective study has revealed that reasonable consumption of coffee has the ability to reduce the risk of developing type-2 diabetes in younger and middle-aged people. As the stovetop espresso maker makes such great tasting coffee, it may encourage you to drink a little bit more coffee and thus, if the report is correct, assist in avoiding type-2 diabetes. Coffee may also have the ability to protect you against liver cirrhosis, especially alcoholic cirrhosis.

You can enjoy the flavor of espresso made from a stovetop coffee maker without feeling guilty as studies have found that it is protective against gallstone development in both women and men. It also is reported to have the capacity to lower the risk of kidney stone development. Coffee increases the urine volume and prevents the crystallization of calcium oxalate, which develops into kidney stone.

If you want to stimulate your mental performance, you can have a cup of coffee. Caffeine has the capability to promote attention, alertness, and calmness. It can also enhance the information processing of your brain. Having three to four cups of coffee daily rejuvenates your brain and enhances vim and vigor.

Drinking coffee on a regular basis may also protect people against Alzheimer’s disease. Recent studies conducted on mouse demonstrated that caffeine equal to five cups of coffee everyday reduces the upsurge of destructive plaques in the brain.

So next time you are enjoying a cup of coffee made from a stove top coffee maker, think about all of the health benefits that recent studies have reported that coffee may bring, so you can enjoy without feeling guilty.

True lovers of coffee understand that Stove Top Coffee Makers produce the best tasting, flavorsome coffee that is a pleasure to drink. A Stainless Steel Stovetop Espresso Maker produces quality and safe coffee to enjoy each day.

Author: Harley Peterson
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Whether enjoyed steaming hot, or blended with ice; whether it is a morning necessity or an occasional treat, coffee has been a universally consumed drink since the ninth century in Ethiopia. Once the plant was discovered, it spread throughout the world like a wildfire. It was used for religious ceremonies, as medicine, and was soon to become part of the average person’s routine. Over the centuries, the brewing process has changed and been perfected, and the varieties and flavors of coffee have grown immensely. But what has stayed the same throughout these years is the underlying, unique flavor of coffee and the world’s general love for it.

The history of coffee can be traced back to as early as ninth century Ethiopia. Legend has it that the first to discover coffee were shepherds, who noticed an increased liveliness in their goats when they consumed a certain berry. Coffee spread to Egypt and Yemen from Ethiopia. By the fifteenth century, it had permeated the entire Middle East and northern Africa. This drink became incredibly popular in the Islamic Empire, where wine was prohibited. Initially, it was only used by Arab Sufi monks to rouse them through their nights of prayer, but it gradually became available and in demand of the general public. Arabia held a monopoly on the coffee plant until 1650, when it was broken by an Indian pilgrim named Baba Budan. Baba is said to have smuggled seven coffee beans out of Arabia, which were grown in Southern India. The offspring of these coffee trees are still being cultivated to this day. From the Muslim world, coffee was brought to Italy, where it gradually moved throughout Europe.

Modern brewing techniques are said to have begun in fifteenth century Arabia, and have been honed and fine-tuned with newer technologies to the complex brewing process in use today. After coffee berries ripen and are ready for harvest, they are hand picked and then processed (the flesh of the berry removed). Then, the beans are fermented to remove a slimy layer still coating the seed, known as mucilage. After fermentation, the beans may or may not be washed with large amounts of water to eliminate the residue from the fermentation process, depending on the brand of coffee. At this point, they are known as green coffee beans. Coffee may be bought green, but all coffee is roasted before consumption. There are different grades of roasting, depending on the time spent on the roast. Darker roasts contain less fiber, and are therefore smoother, while lighter roasts are generally bitterer due to an increased caffeine level. However, lighter roasts contain more aromatic flavors, which are eliminated in further levels of roasting. The different grades are light, cinnamon, medium, high, city, full city, French, and Italian.

Studies show that when it comes to the nutritious value of coffee, there are actually more benefits than risks. Various studies demonstrate that drinking coffee reduces the risk of several chronic and life-threatening diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, and cirrhosis of the liver. Recent research by Finnish and Swedish scientist has shown that middle-age, moderate coffee drinkers (those who drink three to five cups per day) had a reduced risk of contracting Alzheimer’s disease or dementia by as much as 65%. It is unclear how exactly drinking coffee lowers this risk, but it may be because of coffee’s strong antioxidants, which are known to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Also, coffee protects the nervous system, which leads to a decreased chance of dementia. It also prevents diabetes, a disease commonly related to Alzheimer’s. However, too much coffee is simply too much-it should be enjoyed in moderation.

Coffee has proven itself to be rich in its history, uses, types, and taste. It can complete a morning, or complete a life. From centuries of distribution throughout the world from continent to continent, it has been as contagious as an epidemic. The coffee epidemic, however, is not one likely to end for a few more, or maybe even hundreds, of centuries to come.

Anitha Ahmed
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Author: Anitha Ahmed
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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There is an ongoing debate in health manuals on the benefits of drinking coffee. A number of studies have found that over-indulging in coffee can cause high blood pressure, heart disease, and ulcers. On the other hand there are also a number of studies which have proven that drinking coffee bean roasters coffee has salubrious health benefits. For example, a recent study showed that the regular coffee drinking reduces the risk of diabetes, Parkinson’s, and can even lower the risk of colon cancer. Apparently it is the high level of caffeine contained in coffee which is responsible for these health benefits. The risk of developing Parkinson’s disease is directly correlated to caffeine intake – the more caffeine intake, the lower risk of developing this disease. Similar results have been reported for type two diabetes. It has also been reported that drinking two cups of coffee per day reduces the risk of colon cancer by as much as 25%; and the risk of cirrhosis of the liver by 80%.

It appears that it is the antioxidants which are found in coffee which are responsible for lowering the risk of developing these diseases. Antioxidants regulate the growth of disease cells. Additionally, antioxidants are a terrific source of the chlorogenic acid which has been found to lower glucose concentration in the body. Antioxidants protect the body from radicals which can cause illness and increase the risk of major conditions, including cancers and heart disease. In addition to its antioxidant content, a recent study by the University of Bristol of gourmet coffee roasters found that the caffeine in coffee influences our mood and cognition. According to this study, the caffeine in coffee increases alertness and hence performance, in turn increasing productivity in the workplace. Caffeine gives a quick boost of energy which enables people to focus upon what they are doing, and to be able to remember details better.

These studies were all predicated upon the assumption that the person drinks two cups of coffee per day. However, it has been found that overindulging in coffee drinking reduces these benefits. Caffeine contains a mildly addictive stimulant; and it can increase the heart rate and the blood pressure when taken in excess. How much is “too much” is still being debated. A consensus of health experts might agree that probably, in most cases, up to three cups of coffee daily are allowable (and caffeine intake from other sources, such as sodas and teas, should be reduced).

Another point to bear in mind is that not all coffees contain the same amounts of caffeine. Apart from best tasting decaf coffee, gourmet coffees contain less caffeine than ordinary coffees. This is because gourmet coffees are derived from the bean of Arabica strains which contain far less caffeine than coffee made from inferior varieties. The limitation on the production of gourmet coffees is altitude – Arabica coffee requires a high mountain, cool and wet, subtropical climate; as well as rich soil. These growing conditions need less pesticides, which reduces contamination of the environment. Thus Arabica coffees can’t be grown just anywhere. And while gourmet coffee is lower in caffeine than other types, it is highest in antioxidants.

You reduce caffeine with the best tasting decaf coffee. Or, by drinking up to three cups a day of gourmet coffee roasters [http://www.intelligentsiacoffee.com/roasting/roasters] coffee, you can reduce the risk of diseases significantly without diminishing your coffee bean roasters enjoyment.

Author: Alice Lane
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Coffee shops are one of the fastest growing businesses. Leading the high demand for coffee is the United States with 400 million cups of coffee consumed by Americans per day. 14 billion coffee espressos are consumed in Italy each year. So, there is no doubt that coffee is popular, but, is coffee healthy?

Well, if you read the literature, there does not seem to be a clear cut answer to that question. So, we’ll address the good and the bad. First, there are some potential health concerns for coffee drinkers. On the flip side, if used in moderation or in certain circumstances, coffee can have health benefits. So, let’s find out about these concerns and benefits.

Health Problems Related to Coffee and Caffeine

1. Adrenal Fatigue can result from over-consumption of coffee. This is when your adrenal glands become exhausted from over-stimulation. The caffeine in coffee is a nervous system stimulant, which causes your body to produce adrenaline. Adrenaline is the hormone that regulates heart rate, blood pressure and respiration. It is the adrenaline rush from caffeine that gives coffee drinkers the extra “go” to keep up with the heavy demands of their busy lifestyles. Becoming dependant on this adrenaline rush is part of what makes coffee and caffeine addictive.

   Failing to nurture your adrenals can have detrimental side effects. Our adrenals are necessary for producing hormones, which directly influences the operation of other body systems. If the adrenals become depleted and can no longer keep up with the energy demands you are placing on them, your health will suffer and you will be like a car without fuel or a car that has just gone head on into a rock wall.

2. An acidic pH environment is created in the body when there are too many negative influences from acidic food, thoughts, toxins and stressors. The pH balance of the body can range from alkaline, neutral to acidic. Coffee is very acidic with over 200 different acids including uric acid from the breakdown of caffeine. Many health problems such as arthritis arise in the body when it is acidic.
3. Mineral deficiency can arise from the over-consumption of coffee. Some nutrients are blocked from absorption and excessively secreted through urination with the consumption of coffee. Necessary minerals for the body such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron and other trace minerals are at risk of depletion for those who drink coffee.
4. Blood sugar swings such as hypoglycemia can be induced by coffee consumption. Caffeine taxes both the pancreas and the liver by forcing them to produce glycogen and insulin on a double duty rollercoaster. This excessive push of up and down can result in blood sugar swings. Your blood sugar balance is directly connected to hormone balance and fat metabolism.

Health Symptoms that Can Arise from Over-Consumption of Coffee and Caffeine

• Fatigue
• Anxiety, nervousness, irritability
• Irritable bowel syndrome, colitis, diarrhea and other digestive ailments
• Yeast overgrowth, candidiasis
• Hypoglycemia, diabetes
• Dizziness
• Gout
• Heart palpitations or other heart disorders
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Insomnia
• Heartburn
• Liver and gallbladder problems
• Bladder and kidney disorders
• Headaches or migraines
• Ulcers, stomach problems
• Osteoporosis
• Hormone imbalance
• PMS
• Severe menopause symptoms
• Skin eruptions, rashes, acne, eczema
• Urinary tract infections
• Weight gain
• Fibrocystic breast disease
• Infertility
• Miscarriage
• Low baby birth weight
• Enlarged prostate
• Arthritis
• Fibromyalgia
• Memory lapse
• Moodiness
• Lack of concentration

Okay, now on to the flip side of drinking coffee. What if any are the benefits?

If coffee and caffeine consumption is kept to a minimum and not abused, there are some potential health benefits. Some studies suggest that many people can safely drink one to two cups of coffee per day. However, if you are a coffee drinker, what is safe for you may vary. Listen to your body. If you are noticing any of the health problems noted above, consider that coffee might just be the culprit.

Potential Health Benefits of Drinking Coffee

1. In some studies caffeine has shown to improve focus and memory.
2. Coffee and caffeine has been documented to assist athletes in performance and overcoming fatigue.
3. Coffee consumption helps regulate bowel function.
4. Coffee contains antioxidants, which are highly beneficial to our body for fighting free radicals.
5. In some studies, coffee has shown promise in lowering the risk of Parkinson’s disease.

Ultimately, whether coffee is healthy or not comes down to your own personal body and how sensitive or not you are to its affects.

If you are a coffee drinker, you might want to access your relationship to coffee. Are you addicted to it? Can you quit for a day or two without negative side effects? Does it cause you to experience negative symptoms? Are you using coffee as a crutch to get through the day instead of for occasional enjoyment? Can you drink large amounts of coffee with little reaction? This may be a sign that your adrenals are overloaded and no longer responding to stimulus.

If you’ve accessed your coffee consumption habits and coffee is affecting your health in negative ways, first consider giving up coffee or cutting back, and secondly consider supporting your body with some additional nutrients through improved diet and high quality supplements.

With some things in life, a little goes a long way and moderation is the best advice.

If you would like to know how to have more energy without relying on coffee, get your FREE special report “Great Awakening Natural Health Tips” by clicking HERE

Author: Kelly Hoffman
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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Did you know that coffee can actually do a lot more than simply give you a boost in the morning? There are actually a number of health benefits to drinking coffee regularly. So, before you make the switch to herbal tea, read on to learn more about what coffee can do for you and your body.

Reduced Gall Stones

The Harvard School of Public Health recently published a study indicating that drinking caffeinated coffee on a regular basis can dramatically decrease the incidence of gall bladder disease and gall stones in both women and men.

Reduced Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease

Two studies, one published in the European Journal of Neurology, have shown that individuals who drank about 2 cups of caffeinated coffee per day were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than individuals who drank no coffee or a small to moderate amount.

Reduced Risk for Parkinson’s Disease

Studies have shown that the amount of coffee and caffeine consumed could be inversely related to an individual’s likelihood of contracting Parkinson’s disease. This means the more coffee you drink, the lower your chances are for developing the disease.

Antioxidants and Cancer-Fighting Properties

Coffee is a powerful source of antioxidants – agents that combat cancer-causing free radicals. Coffee is chock full of the compound methylpyridinium, which can’t be found in many other food items and not at the level available in coffee. You can get antioxidants from both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee as long as the beans are sufficiently roasted.

Increased Cognitive Ability

Studies have shown that regular coffee drinkers frequently score significantly higher on cognitive ability tests, spatial awareness exams, IQ tests, and short term memory studies.

The effects of coffee on an individual’s cognitive ability appeared to be more pronounced in elderly study participants and women.

Bowel Stimulation

Coffee is a stimulant and also a laxative. Some alternative practitioners even prescribe coffee enemas to stimulate the lower colon.

However, because coffee is also a diuretic, it can cause constipation in some individuals.

Reduced Risk for Gout

A large study of over 45,000 men that was conducted over a 12-year period showed the amount of coffee consumed was inversely related to their risk or likelihood of developing gout.

Remember, everything should be practiced in moderation, and health concerns should always be discussed with a medical professional. So, while a moderate amount of coffee has its benefit, an excessive amount can also cause problems. Heavy coffee drinking can lead to irritability, anxiety, sleep deprivation, cardiovascular problems and higher cholesterol levels.

For additional informative details on coffee and enticing flavors that explode your taste buds, please visit http://www.coffeetryst.com a popular site providing great insights on coffee options, such as organic flavored coffee, Kona blend coffee, and many more!

Author: Wesley Johnson
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
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