Coffee: the magical drink that gives you energy to live your awesome life. You could have been up all night with the baby, or stayed up a little too late watching Netflix—whatever the case is, it’s okay! Because humans have engineered this magic stuff that helps you function and take on the day no matter what. However, like most things, it’s easy to take the blessing that is coffee for granted.
So, the U.S. decided to dedicate a whole day to appreciate the drink. And guess what…that day is today, September 29—National Coffee Day! So grab a cup of joe and take a minute to not only appreciate the energy boost it provides but the many health benefits coffee has to offer as well:
1) It may reduce suicide risk.
A meta-analysis of three different studies (that, in all, involved over 200,000 Americans) on coffee intake found that drinking a couple cups of caffeinated coffee a day was linked to a 50% reduced suicide risk in adults! So don’t be afraid to pour that extra cup before heading out to work—no harm done.
2) It serves as a shield against type 2 diabetes.
Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) analyzed data from three different studies that suggested an increased coffee consumption may reduce one’s risk of type 2 diabetes. The study participants (7,269 of which had type 2 diabetes) answered questionnaires every four years about their diets. And upon evaluation, those who had increased their coffee consumption by at least a cup a day were found to have a lower type 2 diabetes risk over the following few years than those who did not adjust their intake.
3) It can improve mental performance.
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) found a link between 75 mg of caffeine—which is equal to a regular cup of coffee—and enhanced alertness and attention, according to Coffee & Health. This can come in handy when you’re feeling a little drowsy in the mornings or having a hard time staying awake on your drive home from work! You can reap the deliciousness and the safety coffee provides.
4) It reduces your risk of developing a deadly cardiovascular disease.
A study held in Japan of over 76,000 subjects found that men who consumed 1-2 cups of coffee per day reduced their risk of dying from a cardiovascular disease by as much as 38%. That’s huge! Now you don’t have to worry about your morning coffee rituals anymore.
5) It can put you in an overall better headspace.
Caffeine has been found to promote production of multiple neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, noradrenaline, and—most notably—dopamine. This is good news for your health as dopamine levels may improve your mood, while increasing serotonin levels may help relieve feelings of depression.