Whether it's a rich espresso to kickstart the day or a creamy cappuccino to savor during an evening chat with friends, coffee has seamlessly woven itself into the fabric of our daily lives.
From quaint local coffee shops to upscale cafés, its presence is ubiquitous. In Dhaka, it's not uncommon to find coffee being served at weddings, with options ranging from indulgent cappuccinos to velvety lattes.
The distinct flavors, smooth textures, and intoxicating aromas, coupled with the energizing kick of caffeine, are universally cherished. Nescafe, Tora Bika, and Davidoff are just a few of the instant coffee brands readily available in shops across Dhaka.
While the number of coffee shops is increasing as well as the coffee craze, questions arise over the benefit of coffee. Questions brew over the cup of coffee- whether coffee is good or bad for us? Is it a habit, a norm, a vice or just a custom?
Health benefits of coffee
Typically a cup of coffee serves 70 to 140 milligrams of caffeine. Depending on the type of coffee and the roasting and brewing procedure, the caffeine content of coffee may vary.
Caffeine blocks the effects of an inhibitory neurotransmitter called adenosine and increases neuronal firing in the brain and the release of other neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. All these things help the brain to work smartly. It lowers the risk of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Caffeine helps to mobilize fatty acids from fat tissues and raises metabolic rate. It reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes. Coffee is also protective against certain liver disorders. Not only caffeine but coffee is packed with nutrients and antioxidants as well.
Side effects of caffeine
While low-to-moderate doses of caffeine are typically safe, excessive intake can have unfavourable and perhaps harmful side effects. As caffeine can increase alertness, it increases anxiety levels too. One of the most unique qualities caffeine possesses is it helps people to stay awake. This blessing can turn into a curse with insomnia.
Too much caffeine intake may develop rhabdomyolysis. It is a condition in which damaged muscle fibres enter the bloodstream. Rhabdomyolysis can lead to kidney failure and other fatal problems.
Coffee has a laxative effect as it triggers the release of gastrin, a hormone produced in the stomach that increases colonic motility. It can turn into diarrhoea in some cases.
High caffeine intake can also increase the risk of high blood pressure, fatigue and impulsive heartbeat.
Although coffee has many positive attributes, the side effects should also be considered. If it is only a personal choice to drink several cups of coffee in a day, it should be avoided for health benefits. Consumption of coffee should be limited.
While coffee undeniably holds a cherished place in our daily routines, its consumption warrants careful consideration. With its myriad of health benefits, including heightened cognitive function, reduced risks of certain diseases, and its abundance of nutrients and antioxidants, coffee can be a boon to our well-being.
However, be careful about the potential adverse effects of excessive caffeine intake, such as heightened anxiety, insomnia, gastrointestinal issues, and increased risk of certain health conditions like rhabdomyolysis and high blood pressure, cannot be overlooked. Therefore, while enjoying a cup of coffee can be a delightful ritual, moderation is key to safeguarding our health and well-being.
