Elder Care Cafe

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Coffee and caffeine have taken a bad rap for many years. Although coffee can temporarily raise heart rate, blood pressure and, in high doses, cause insomnia, recent studies show it probably does not contribute to heart disease.

Coffee may not be good for the heart, but it is not bad either. Moreover, follow-up studies now refute caffeine is linked to pancreatic or bladder cancer.

Changing viewpoints

Researchers found coffee improves mood and memory, increases safe driving when drivers are tired, and temporarily boosts endurance in athletes. Sorry dieter, not yet proven is whether coffee aids in weight loss. In addition, recent findings now show a decreased risk of Alzheimer’s disease in those who drink coffee.

Good news for diabetics

Of even greater interest, at least in our family, are the large studies suggesting that coffee drinkers have a significantly reduced risk of type 2 diabetes. In addition, it is not the caffeine: decaf coffee seems to work as well. These findings are great news to the millions of diabetics facing disability and death.

Scientists are eagerly studying the other ingredients in coffee to find out what is causing favorable blood sugar levels.

For all diabetics it is important to remember caffeine should not replace nutritious meals, nor should non-coffee drinkers pick up the habit just because they think coffee will benefit their health.

Further studies seek to understand the role coffee plays in the sphere of good health. Most experts agree a couple of cups a day are okay for most people. Now, just watch what you put in the coffee. That is a different story.

Related Posts:

• September 10, 2008 -- A Checklist for Good Diabetic Care – Once or Twice a Year
• September 9, 2008 -- A Checklist For Good Diabetic Care – Every Routine Checkup
• August 26, 2009 -- Pre-Diabetes is no Laughing Matter
• August 13, 2009 -- Sleep and Diabetes – Is There a Connection?
• August 13, 2009 -- Nursing Homes and Communication Skills