Five things you didn't know about coffee

The world is evenly divided into tea drinkers and coffee drinkers. While there are loads of people in both the camps - the java loyalists and tea addicts, between the two though tea is written about more, and also discussed much more, and usually in positive connotations. Coffee on the other hand, unfortunately seems to have become synonymous with caffeine and controversy - and is mostly derided as a health-messer, adding thus more than a tinge of guilt to its every sip. But the fact is that while it may not be the most salubrious beverage around, it is definitely not the devil it is being made out to be. It is time to chuck the guilt, or at least get the facts right about this muddy brew - and then make a choice.

It's devoid of calories. Yes, coffee is actually an almost zero calorie cuppa (two calories in a cup) till we decide to make it anything but, by adding full fat milk, whipped cream, flavoured syrups, and of course, loads of sugar. Then it becomes the super-sized, frothy, sweetened beyond recognition liquid given complicated names that we sip stylishly in trendy cafes - and delivers humongous calories (sometimes more than a meal's worth). So drink it as the Italians (and French) do - a small, black cup. And leave decadent coffees for special times only.

Research has shown clearly that the antioxidants in this bitter liquid are plenty, and three of these (caffeine, caffeic acid and chlorogenic acid) according to a study done by Chinese researchers, work together to keep the risk of type 2 diabetes down. Other scientists have put up other mechanisms that help stave off the risk of the disorder. Some say magnesium in it contributes, too… so even though it is not conclusively clear, the findings do indicate coffee having a beneficial role in helping to lower blood glucose levels. That's definitely sweet news!

By the way, caffeine found in coffee is often used in headache relieving medications. But just like you wouldn't want to pop too many pills, you would want to drink coffee in moderation too, as too much might just end up becoming a headache (besides causing other unwanted effects like rapid heartbeat, sleeplessness, brain fog, irritability). Besides, the jury is (still) out on whether caffeine cures or causes headaches... so, till there is a clear consensus, getting addicted surely seems like a bad idea.

Caffeine in coffee bumps up our dopamine levels and adenosine production; both are neurochemicals that help cut fatigue, boost our mood and liven us up. And let's face it - there are times when we do need help in being revived from our zombie states. That said, the fact is that too much coffee (say, on the hour, like some people I know) does more harm than help; the caffeine in it gives us a temporary lift but a slump follows soon enough. Plus it is a diuretic and may dehydrate the body (the jury is out on this one too) and stress the energy reserves. So going easy on it is the logical advice here.

Research is now coming in about coffee's benefits for the liver, too. A review has shown that the beverage helps prevent liver inflammation. Plus, some studies show that it helps boost memory, and keep Parkinson's, Alzheimers and dementia away. Some scientists are pointing out its cancer prevention benefits, too. Too early to say anything conclusively about these, so the take away to date is that one can/must enjoy this rich multi-layered brew responsibly! Most experts peg one to three cups a day as sensible and safe, and a range that'll maximise the benefits and hedge the risks.