Caffeine And Women’s Health – All Things In Moderation

Millions of women around the world love, love, love their coffee – and tea too. And the industry knows this as they regularly introduce us to all sorts of new and exciting flavors and creative concoctions. So, whether first thing in the morning as a wake-me-up, in the afternoon as a pick-me-up or after dinner as a delightful ending to a wonderful meal, that enchanting taste and aroma are certainly something we females (and males as well) crave. But did you ever stop to think about what the effects of all that caffeine consumption might be having on your health? Well, as the saying goes, ‘all things in moderation’.

The Pick-Me-Up Effect

It’s no secret that caffeinated coffees, teas and even cocoa can certainly motivate our energy level. And as it’s recognized as an actual stimulant to our central nervous and cardiovascular systems, the good news is that caffeine does not build up and remain in our bodies. After a span of time, usually a few hours depending on how much is consumed, the caffeine in our blood stream dissipates and so that's why you might feel the need to ‘recharge’ with another cup or two after a while.

Looking Back, You May Remember…

Based on a 2007 study, results reported from the French National Institute for Health and Medical Research have shown that caffeine consumption may in fact assist with retaining long-term memory skills. 7,000 women and men over 65 took part in the assessment and although there were no gains in men’s memories, the four-year testing period did show that women who drank three cups of caffeinated coffee or tea daily, actually did retain better recollection abilities. Testing such as this may eventually prove that regular, moderate caffeine consumption can deter the onset of Dementia and Alzheimer’s, but as of yet, it’s still up for debate.

Roasting Our Way to Good Health

In terms of coffee, the bean does indeed contain an antioxidant that is not found in many other food sources. But what you may find very interesting is that the bean doesn’t actually become ‘healthy’ until after it’s roasted. You see, during that process, a powerful cancer fighting agent called methylpyridinium is formed from that previously raw bean’s compound known as trigonelline. And better yet, the antioxidant produced from roasted coffee beans are found not only in caffeinated coffee, but also in decaf and believe it or not – instant coffee as well!

Temperance is Best

So in conclusion, consuming your favorite caffeine beverage certainly does provide some healthy benefits. But as the safe, daily recommended amount is 300mg a day (around 3 cups), always be sure to keep in mind what you’ve heard a million times before – everything in moderation.