Can we begin by talking about the things we do for our general physique and skin and hair health? Not all of us, but some of us do go the extra mile – whether it is buying expensive skin serums or surfing blogging websites researching the habits we can develop to get that even complexion, shiny hair and speed up weight loss.
But you’ll be surprised to know that one of those things that can bring a change in the way we look is drinking black coffee. It is not that black coffee tastes like heaven but people who know of the benefits would go to the extent of drinking black coffee every day to get the benefits.
Yes, black coffee is good for your health. It may not be the first time you heard this claim. The leading fitness magazines and the internet in general hail black coffee. Consequently, you must have at least for once, considered drinking black coffee every day. But is it worth it? Well, let’s weigh the benefits and find out.
Black coffee for weight loss
If you are on the quest to shed kilos and get back in shape, you know exercising and diet matter. In fact, your diet has the upper hand here. You must maintain a calorie deficit to lose fat. In case it didn’t occur to you liquid calories also count.
If you happen to drink normal coffee and tea several times a day, you may be surprised to find out that these beverages can contain 70-300 calories depending on the milk content and other ingredients. Yes. You read that right.
Black coffee, on the other hand, can be the perfect alternative that satisfies your thirst for beverages and doesn’t increase your calorie intake. One cup of black coffee only contains 2.4 calories. Yes, just 2.4. We are talking about unsweetened black coffee without milk.
Not to mention, black coffee comes with chlorogenic acid, which is known to accelerate weight loss. As per studies, if you consume black coffee after dinner, the presence of this substance slows down the production of glucose in the body. In addition, the production of new fat cells is also decreased, meaning fewer calories in the body.
It can also lead to a loss of water weight as black coffee eliminates excess water from the body.
Black coffee for skin and hair health
Black coffee, when consumed in moderation, can offer several benefits for skin and hair health. Rich in antioxidants, black coffee aids in fighting free radicals, which can cause premature ageing and skin damage. These antioxidants help to rejuvenate skin cells, promoting a youthful complexion and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Additionally, the caffeine in black coffee can constrict blood vessels, reducing puffiness and inflammation, resulting in a more even skin tone and reduced dark circles.
Furthermore, the stimulating properties of caffeine can promote hair growth by improving blood circulation to the scalp, thereby encouraging the follicles to produce stronger, healthier strands. Black coffee can also help combat dandruff and scalp irritation due to its antifungal properties, leaving the scalp feeling refreshed and revitalized. However, it’s essential to consume black coffee in moderation and be mindful of its potential to dehydrate the body, as proper hydration is also crucial for maintaining healthy skin and hair.
Other benefits of black coffee
The benefits of black coffee are not limited to weight management and skin and hair health. There are other benefits too that can convince you to welcome black coffee into your lifestyle. Here are a few of them.
Helps boost productivity and improve mood
Finding it hard to focus and have that clarity of thought? Black coffee can help as it can stimulate the nervous system by increasing the release of norepinephrine and dopamine, your body’s happy hormone. In addition, black coffee can boost excitability in the brain, improving mood and facilitating a more productive environment.
Likewise, if you are struggling with mood swings, black coffee can increase dopamine and serotonin levels, improving mood and overall mental health.
Good for cardiovascular health
If studies are concerned, drinking 2 cups of coffee can reduce the risk of having a stroke and cardiovascular diseases. Coffee beans are enriched with 100 biologically active compounds which reduce inflammation, and oxidative stress and improve insulin sensitivity, all of which are good for maintaining normal heart rhythms.
Good for liver
One of the most important functions of your liver is to filter out toxins and handle the metabolic processes, which include conversion and utilisation of energy. Hence, it is vital that your liver stays in the best of its health. For that to happen, harmful liver enzymes must be controlled. This is where black coffee comes in as it reduces the amount of harmful liver enzymes in the body.
Helps cleanse the stomach
A clean stomach does feel good. If not, you may feel constipated and uncomfortable. This is where black coffee comes in. It is a diuretic beverage which means the more you consume it, the more often you will urinate. And from what we know, frequent urination flushes out bacteria and toxins from the body to clean your stomach.
It is rich in antioxidants
Black coffee is rich in antioxidants such as magnesium, potassium, Vitamin B3, B2 and manganese. These antioxidants maintain fluid levels in the body and support blood pressure. The various vitamins help boost the body’s immunity and metabolic rate as well.
Closing thoughts
Welcoming black coffee into your daily routine can provide numerous benefits for both your skin and hair health. Its rich antioxidant content helps combat signs of ageing and promotes a glowing complexion, while its stimulating properties encourage hair growth and scalp health. However, moderation is key, as excessive consumption can lead to dehydration. By enjoying a daily cup of black coffee, you not only savour its robust flavour but also harness its potential to enhance your overall well-being.