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According to the National Coffee Association, coffee consumption in the U.S. continues to rise. Consumers are interested in different varieties of coffee and are also demanding high quality. This trend can be seen in all demographics, from college students to new agers to baby boomers. In 2008, 17% of the adult population consumed a gourmet beverage on a daily basis. Typically consumers guzzle down on average 3.2 cups per day.
Americans are in love with coffee. You cant walk down the street without coming across a local coffee house or the even more popular coffee chains, such as Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, and now even McDonalds. Right now, coffee drinkers are interested in single-origin coffee, including the country of origin and the care put into harvesting and producing. It seems as though the coffee industry has become comparable to the wine industry. Single varieties and blends of coffee beans yield distinct flavor notes and characteristics that ultimately produce an high quality cup of coffee. Overall one of the major factors behind the perfect cup of coffee depends on the quality of the coffee and as freshly roasted as possible.
Since we consume so much of coffee, how healthy is this daily habit? Years ago there was concern about coffee consumption and heart disease and cancer, however this has yet to be substantiated. In fact, newer studies indicate coffee consumption may be beneficial to your health. For example, there has been over 15 studies conducted all over the world which indicate regular coffee consumption is linked with a decreased rate of type 2 diabetes. Other studies have indicated that coffee consumption may lower the risk of liver cancer. In addition, new emerging research indicates the caffeine in coffee can assist with feeling alert and focused. Coffee also contains numerous antioxidants. In fact, a study conducted by the University of Scranton indicates that coffee is the primary source of antioxidants in the American diet due to the amount we consume.
Coffee is typically low in calories however due to all the emergence of different coffee beverages, some of these beverages can deliver up to 700 calories per serving. Keep in mind that coffee may not be ideal for everyone, particular those with heartburn (reflux), migraines, sleep disturbance, arrhythmia’s, and benign fibrocystic breast disease.
There is more to learn about coffee and how it may affect our health, however at this point there does not appear to be any real health threat associated with coffee consumption. With this in mind, go explore the world of coffee and enjoy the variety, flavors, and possible health benefits that coffee has to offer.