The Pros and Cons of Coffee

A daily cup of coffee, is it benefiting your health or is it derailing you from reaching your health goals? The answer may not be so black and white. Patti Miller, a BaySport Nutritionist, is here to show both sides of the argument.

Pros:

1. According to the  Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics your morning cup of coffee can “lower risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and some cancers.”  Coffee contains antioxidants and other properties than can help reduce inflammation. Read the article for more information.
2. Healthline lists 13 reasons why coffee is good for you including improving your memory, burning fat and fighting depression. Read the article to find out the other 10 reasons.
3. Coffee can improve your athletic performance.  Learn how here.

Cons:

1. Certain groups, such as people with hypertension and the elderly, may be more susceptible to the adverse effects of caffeine. According to the Mayo Clinic, caffeine can increase blood pressure and those at risk should speak to their Dr. about limiting intake.
2. We all react differently to caffeine. Too much caffeine can cause anxiety, insomnia, digestive issues and high blood pressure.Read here for more information.
3. Many people enjoy the jolt from the morning cup of Joe but can add extra calories in the form of fat and sugar by choosing “fancy” coffee drinks. Be careful of processed creamers, added sugar (agave, honey, brown sugar). Here is an article listing “The 10 coffee drinks worse than a candy bar.” One example is, Starbucks Eggnog Latte 380 calories, 18 g fat (11 saturated), 38 g sugar in a Tall.

About the Author:

Patti Miller is a Registered Dietitian having completed her B.S. in Food, Nutrition and Dietetics as well as a dietetic internship. Patti’s professional background includes clinical nutrition support within hospitals and inpatient facilities as well as outpatient counseling and home care visits. Patti has worked as a consultant for BaySport providing one-on-one counseling. She has consulted with private fitness clients and provided nutritional assessments for a healthy, ready-to-cook meal preparation service. She belongs to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and California Dietetics Association. Patti enjoys spending her free time with her husband and two sons and enjoys weight training, golf, games and travel.