If only good days were available by the cup. Well, apparently there are brags the makers of Maxwell House Coffee as “a good day starts with good coffee”. But what exactly is in your cup of Joe?
For decades health gurus and scientists alike have tackled with the debate as to whether or not coffee is good for you. However, the focus has not really been on coffee itself but rather, one of its major components; caffeine. Studies have shown that negative side effects are as a result of addiction and over use of the stimulant caffeine. Considering caffeine is only one component of coffee, the complimentary ingredients of black coffee are said to have contributing factors to coffee’s extensive benefits.
Coffee: strong, black and hot, without any additives has no significant amounts of fat, carbs or protein. In a cup of this morning pick me upper however, you’ll find that drinkers kick start their day with consuming a portion of the daily recommended intake for the following nutrients: Potassium, Magnesium (2%), Manganese (3%), Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin b5) (6%), Riboflavin (Vitamin b2) (11%), Niacin (Vitamin b3) (2%) and traces of Sodium. The B vitamins have been known to improve nerve function and increase energy, which might explain why coffee contributes to alertness.
Wake up and smell the coffee! Opening a bottle of coffee sends a smell up your nostrils that causes a feeling of calm, happiness and content, not to mention waking up to the sweet aroma of coffee brewing in the morning. Despite all the bad press about caffeine, after you indulge in your morning adventure as the warm liquid slides down your throat and into your stomach, when absorbed into the blood stream, signals are sent to your brain causing a boost in the firing of neurons increasing chemicals such dopamine and other ‘feel good hormones’ which improve memory, mood, energy levels, reaction time and overall brain function. And it is because of this amazing aromatic effect why candle makers are now making coffee scented candles, so the morning aroma is always available whether or not a pot is brewed.
Antioxidants are properties occurring in foods which help our bodies fight off free radicals and other cancer contributing agents in our body. A cup of coffee is buzzing with antioxidants and also has the ability to encourage the body to detox naturally. It acts as a diuretic, so you will realize that your urge to urinate increases when coffee is consumed. Caffeine is frequently present in both weight loss supplements and pain relievers. This is due to the fact that it stimulates the nervous system, sending your adrenaline levels shooting, this is the fight or flight hormone which prepares the body for extreme physical output. The body breaks down fat releasing free fatty acids in the body to be readily available as fuel for energy. Studies have shown a short term boost in metabolism.
“Not just coffee but a beverage….If only good days were available by the cup.”
Romaro Samuels, brand manager and ambassador for Maxwell House Coffee attests to their slogan that their coffee is “good to the last drop”. Their coffee is 100% pure, and is available in all sizes for convenience and lifestyle preference. While Samuels is hypertensive, he partakes in the daily cup himself and affirms that his blood pressure has not been negatively affected. As such with many other brands of coffee on the market he seeks to market Maxwell House as “not just coffee but a beverage”.
Did you know that coffee grains can be used exfoliate dead skin in facials? Also, coffee’s stimulating effects can improve blood circulation. Coffee can appeal to everyone, whether it be the avid drinker, baker or party goer. It can be used as a spice in the baking cabinet as well as a flavour in the bar on the top shelf.
Give coffee a break. Most negative effects of coffee consumption occur as a result of additives such as sugar, milk and cream especially popular in many commercialized coffees and especially those found in cafes and coffee houses such as lattes, frappes and cappuccinos. Too much ah any ting nuh good fi nutten. Everything in moderation. Today is a good day for a good day and it starts with a cup of coffee – hot black and strong.