Some people say yes. Some people say no. Here is my opinion...
Coffee contains both health-promoting properties as well as some potentially harmful ones. Some research shows that there are benefits of coffee consumption, thanks to its antioxidant properties and ability to expedite the passage of food and toxins through the gastrointestinal tract. Also, the caffeine in coffee has been shown to enhance exercise and fitness performance as well as improve cognition. So, a cup before a workout or before taking a big exam can actually be beneficial. Plus, caffeine acts as an appetite suppressant, which could also be an advantage for many people. However, I don't advocate drinking coffee like crazy to suppress your appetite.
On the negative side, coffee is linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure because of the caffeine. Also, anyone with Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD) should avoid coffee because it can exacerbate the problem. Both caffeinated and decaf coffee can irritate the lining of the stomach and increase acid production. Coffee has an overall acidifying effect in the body, which is something I really don't like. When your body is too acidic, that is when disease and sickness thrive! Anther concern is the presence of acrylamides in coffee. These cancer-promoting compounds form during the roasting of coffee beans, and small amounts do ultimately find their way in the brewed cup you are drinking. To add to the negative side of coffee, (which you can see is longer than the positive side) caffeine is a stimulant and does inhibit the ability to fall asleep for many, so drink it early on in the day.
Something else to think about is if the coffee you are drinking is organic coffee like organo gold. Organic coffee is a MUCH better choice. Certified organic beans are never fumigated, never treated with chemicals, and whereas regular coffee may be chemically decaffeinated with chemicals that are known to be carcinogenic, organic decaf coffee must be naturally processed.
So - what am I really saying? Overall, if you are eating a whole food, plant-based diet that includes plenty of vegetables and fruit, a little bit of coffee here and there is not going to kill you or be detrimental to your health. Moderation is key! My husband has started drinking organic coffee - but he stays with one cup a couple times a week. I can feel comfortable with that. And don't dump a bunch of sugar and creamer in there either. Black is best!
*Cara was compensated for this post. All opinions expressed are 100% her own.*
I've heard a lot of back and forth arguments on this, but I figure when it comes down to it fair trade organic black coffee would probably be best all-around!
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