1 October = International Coffee Day... and yes, the 'cuppa Joe' has loads of benefits
Coffee lovers, today is for your favourite cuppa...
Photo: Unsplash/Alex Padurariu
Africa Melane speaks to resident fitness enthusiast, Liezel Van Der Westhuizen about the benefits of caffeine.
1 October = International Coffee Day.
International Coffee Day is observed by almost every country around the world on 1 October.
The day is meant to celebrate what most dub 'survival juice'.
Coffee makes most people survive their morning, day or have a reason to catch up with someone over a cuppa.
But the dark brew offers more than a caffeine boost, studies show a good cuppa is also 'nutrient rich and contains beneficial nutrients like riboflavin, magnesium, potassium and anti-oxidants which can help combat stress,' shares Van Der Westhuizen.
Moderate coffee consumption can help improve your mood while boosting cognitive function, adds Van Der Westhuizen.
Van der Westhuizen also shares Ray's opinion, who works at Kauai, about the benefits of coffee.
"Moderate coffee drinking is full of health benefits from protecting your heart and liver to reducing risks of type two diabetes so there are plenty of good reasons to indulge in the pleasure of a good cup of coffee."
- Ray, Kauai
Studies also show that it's a 'great idea to have coffee 30 minutes to an hour before exercising' - allowing you to push harder during your workout as it boosts:
- athletic performance
- adrenalin levels
- focus and alertness
- endurance and strength
Post workout coffee can also help with recovery as it:
- replenishes glycogen levels
- reduces muscle soreness
- increases anti-oxidants for stress reduction.
It's important to balance caffeine intake with water to ensure proper hydration during and post workouts, emphasises Van Der Westhuizen.
Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the full conversation.