Monday Grind

It wakes 54% of Americans up every morning. You have just the right mug, choices of cream, milk, sugar. Let's not forget flavored coffee. We also spend a ton of money on coffee shops each year and will wait tirelessly in our favorite drive through just to get it and often spend way too much on a single cup. It is also a part of many countries cultures to meet for coffee with a friend, take a coffee break at work or use coffee as a time for conversation. The aroma alone gives you the sign that the day has begun. 

There is a lot of talk about coffee and it being beneficial for you and just as much as being harmful. My take is that anything in excess is likely not good for you, so everything in moderation. There is an immense amount of research and countless studies of the affects and benefits of coffee, and what I have found is that it is all positive. Here are just a few beneficial facts.

• Coffee has a huge amount of antioxidants. Linked to lower liver disease and cardiovascular disease.

• It may help protect brain cells from the damage that causes Parkinson's, dementia and Alzheimer's. 

• Coffee can sharpen your memory and gives you an energy boost.

• The aroma of coffee alone can set off a signal in the brain that causes relaxation

• It can help you burn fat! That is why it is in every fat burning supplement on the market practically. Speeds up your metabolism

• Coffee can enable you to be a better athlete. Giving you a boost of energy to go the distance. 

Besides just being good for you, coffee has a lot of practical uses as well. Putting a small container in your car uncovered can soak up any odors in your car acting as a natural deodorizer. Added with water to make a thick paste, you can fix a scratch in wood furniture by rubbing it in gently to match the wood. Coffee is a natural fertilizer when put in soil. The acid helps encourage growth. You can even put it on your face. The granules of coffee act as a natural exfoliator and can rid dead skin cells.

I cannot think of anything negative to say about my beloved AM ritual.  Now not everyone is a coffee drinker. I will admit, it is an acquired taste. But for those who are, feel good about your coffee habit and dive into the health benefits it can provide. Happy Monday and Drink Up!

(Research from  www.health.com, www.rd.com)