Caffeine and happiness may be a team. That’s because researchers have found that caffeine can improve mood. This is attributed to the fact that caffeine boosts serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline -- neurotransmitters in the brain known to be associated with depression. In fact, one study found that women who drink four or more cups of coffee daily (the caffeinated version) may have a 20 percent reduced risk of depression.
Caffeine has even been shown to reduce the risk of suicide. Studies have shown that drinking a few cups of coffee daily may cut the risk in half.
If you want to lower your risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, reach for that java. A study led by the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) found that coffee can reduce the risk. In fact, those who increased coffee intake by more than a cup a day over a period of four years exhibited a decreased risk of 11 percent. However, those who cut coffee consumption by more than one cup per day increased their risk by 17 percent. That said, decaf didn’t work. So stick with the real deal.
According to Caffeine Informer, caffeine is known to help reduce pain. That’s why it’s found in some over-the-counter pain medications.
This effect applies to workout recovery as well. In fact, researchers at the University of Georgia discovered that about two cups of coffee can decrease pain after a workout by nearly 50 percent. That said, subjects weren’t regular caffeine consumers, so results could vary in those who consume caffeine daily. And caffeine may be able to reduce pain during a workout, too.
According to Caffeine Informer, an older study found that caffeine had the ability to reduce muscle pain associated with moderate exercise. Subjects who were given large doses of caffeine before cycling exhibited less muscle pain compared to those who were given a placebo.
So don't feel too guilty if that morning joe is your best friend. But as with everything else, don't overdo it.