Why coffee is so stimulating

Most Germans choose their cup of coffee every day – after all, 166 liters were drunk per capita in Germany in 2019. A small 150 milliliter cup of coffee contains 80 milligrams of  caffeine . If we enjoy the hot drink in moderation, coffee has extremely positive effects. In the 17th and 18th centuries, coffee slowly but surely caught on in Europe. At first, coffee was drunk for breakfast, later more and more with other meals as well. The popularity of coffee is mainly due to its stimulating effect. This effect of coffee can essentially be attributed to the caffeine it contains.

Caffeine content and calories in coffee

Depending on the variety, a coffee bean contains between  0.8 and 4 percent caffeine.  The caffeine content in the coffee is also determined by how long the water has been in contact with the powder. In the usual amount – no more than four cups of 200 milliliters a day – there is no health risk associated with the consumption of coffee.

In general, one can say that coffee boosts the entire  metabolism  . In addition, it increases  calorie consumption , but with zero calories it is not a problem for the figure. The prerequisite for the lack of calories in coffee is, of course, that it is drunk black.

Is coffee healthy?

The coffee bean has an amazing effect on our gray cells: the cerebral blood flow is increased – and with it the concentration. The reaction speed and receptiveness of our brain also increase. Coffee is a “wake-up” – after a cup of coffee we are more attentive and concentrated than before. Coffee makes you more creative, smarter and more enduring, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it robs you of sleep. For example, two cups will perk up some people in the late afternoon, while others will be sleepy with just one cup.

This effect of coffee is caused by the caffeine it contains. This constricts the blood vessels, which briefly increases blood pressure and accelerates blood flow. As a result, the cells are supplied with more oxygen and are more active. 

Caffeine also affects our  respiratory center  – breathing is accelerated and the bronchial vessels dilate. Caffeine also has a  diuretic  effect and leads to increased urination (diuretic effect).

If you consume coffee in normal amounts, this effect is not harmful. Nevertheless, according to recent studies, the brain can get used to the regular intake of caffeine and thus  withdrawal symptoms  can also occur if you do not drink coffee. These include  fatigue ,  headaches ,  and irritability.

Who benefits from enjoying coffee?

Coffee lifts the mood, promotes a good mood and …

• Seniors benefit from better cerebral circulation and for this reason can often  fall asleep better with a cup of coffee in the evening .
• Caffeine has a vasodilating effect, which is why it is also used pharmaceutically: against headaches,  asthma ,  cardiac insufficiency  or morphine poisoning.
• Anyone who loves coffee and is concerned about their  cholesterol levels  needs to know that how you prepare the coffee matters. Enjoying filtered coffee has no effect on blood lipid levels. Substances that affect cholesterol levels only enter the body in unfiltered versions (e.g. espresso).
• Recent studies show that regular coffee consumption reduces the risk of developing gallstones by up to 23 percent. This was true for study participants who otherwise did not consume coffee.
• The chlorogenic acid contained in coffee may   prevent colon and liver cancer .
• Coffee can also be a “digestive aid”. A coffee or espresso after a meal stimulates gastric acid production and bile secretion – stomach and intestines get going again.
• It is known that caffeine can improve endurance performance during sporting activities. The “wake-up” effect and stimulation of breathing through the coffee ingredients are useful for athletes. However, it is still unclear whether the breakdown of fats leads to increased fat burning. Caffeinated beverages should be consumed before exercise, but are not suitable as a post-exercise fluid replacement.

How fast does coffee work?

Coffee develops its stimulating effect about 30 to 45 minutes after drinking it. The effect of coffee is different for each person. On the one hand, it is influenced by the presence of so-called adenosine receptors, to which caffeine binds. On the other hand, the body breaks down caffeine at different speeds. Age and weight can also play a role.

According to a US study, the best effect is achieved by consuming the caffeine in small doses throughout the day instead of in a large cup in the morning, as the level of the messenger substance adenosine can be kept at a permanently lower level. Adenosine is formed in the body during the day and thus increases the physical need for sleep.

Coffee: unhealthy effect if …

Caffeine also has negative effects, but only in higher doses. Drinking too much coffee can lead to tremors, palpitations,  high blood pressure  and, under certain circumstances, anxiety attacks. People who are extremely sensitive to the effects of caffeine then suffer from sleep disorders, stomach problems or the symptoms mentioned above.

In addition, the following negative effects of coffee are possible:

• Coffee is an “acid loosener”, which means that gastric juice production is stimulated. So if you have a sensitive stomach or already have a stomach condition, you should limit your coffee consumption to two cups a day.
• Over time, the nerve cells get used to the caffeine that is present. If the enjoyment of coffee is suddenly stopped completely, headaches can set in. However, these subside again after a few days.
• Coffee should only be consumed in small amounts by breastfeeding mothers or pregnant women. A cup of coffee a day during  pregnancy  does not harm the unborn child.
• If you have serious heart problems, you should discuss your coffee consumption with your doctor.