With the growing number of coffee drinkers worldwide, there is a lot of buzz about this brew. Drinking it at the right time and in the right amount has many benefits for the body.
15 health-preserving functions of coffee from the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine
1. Pain relief
Coffee can alleviate pain, such as headaches caused by a lack of sleep or the discomfort associated with vascular constriction in the temples. These pains, stemming from non-organic factors, can be mitigated by consuming this drink, preferably in the morning or at noon.
2. Hangover cure
Consuming coffee after alcohol can accelerate the oxidation of acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism, into harmless water and carbon dioxide, facilitating its elimination from the body.
3. Anti-aging
The rich, bitter taste of coffee comes from its high content of antioxidants, surpassing even that of tea, fruits, and vegetables rich in vitamins A, C, and B-complex. These antioxidants combat free radicals and support anti-aging.
4. Mental alertness
Coffee’s aromatic and spicy flavor can easily penetrate the blood-brain barrier, stimulating the central nervous system and enhancing mental clarity, responsiveness, and concentration. This stimulation can improve work efficiency, sensory perception, judgment, and memory.
5. Fat reduction
Caffeine can speed up the breakdown of fat and increase the metabolic rate, leading to enhanced caloric burn and aiding in skin tightening and fat loss.
6. Diuretic
Coffee can enhance kidney function, promoting the elimination of excess sodium and increasing urine output. This helps alleviate bloating and edema, contributing to weight loss.
7. Blood circulation
Coffee contains linoleic acid, which can dissolve blood clots, prevent thrombosis, improve blood circulation, and relieve vascular headaches, especially migraines.
8. Stroke prevention
Coffee can lower the risk of stroke by accelerating cholesterol metabolism and reducing arterial plaque buildup.
9. Stress relief
Regular, moderate coffee consumption can uplift the spirits, dispel worries and depression, relieve stress, and relax the mind and body.
10. Asthma control
Caffeine can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and inhibit the parasympathetic nervous system, helping to prevent asthma attacks.
11. Odor elimination
The tannins in caffeine can neutralize odors, including those from eating garlic and meat.
12. Gallstone prevention
Coffee, especially caffeinated varieties, can stimulate gallbladder contraction and reduce the cholesterol content in bile, lowering the risk of gallstone formation. Studies have shown that men who drink 2 to 3 cups a day have a less than 40 percent chance of developing gallstones.
13. Appetite and digestion
Caffeine stimulates the sympathetic nervous system, enhancing gastric acid secretion and digestive processes, and preventing stomach issues such as bloating and prolapse.
14. Muscle and joint strength
Caffeine can facilitate voluntary muscle contractions, strengthen tendons, reduce the threshold for physical exertion, and enhance body agility and sports performance.
15. Dry eye prevention for computer users
Reports indicate that regular coffee drinkers have a lower incidence of dry eye syndrome, mainly due to its purine components.
This exploration of this brew’s health benefits through the lens of traditional Chinese medicine reveals its significant role not just in daily pleasure, but also in holistic well-being, especially for those leading a deskbound lifestyle.
Translated by cecilia, edited by Amanda
