Need black coffee to keep going through the day? Here are some pros and cons

Is a cup of hot black coffee your first wish each morning? Is it a staple, almost a ritual? If yes, here’s a heads up on the beans that create multiple health benefits. Only if consumed as much as is required; remember, excess of everything is bad!

Early morning dose?

Tricity-based nutritionist Dr Isha Ahuja says the early morning cup of coffee is best avoided. “Our body cleanses toxins the whole night and repairs dead cells, but coffee first thing in the morning destroys all that effort. I would suggest the first cup of coffee should not be taken before 11 am.”

Benefits galore

Black coffee has multiple benefits and Dr Ahuja says it is just not a ‘fad’.

• Metabolism boost: Before a workout session, it gives the much-needed energy fillip to the body.
• Increases focus: If your body is losing its focus while working-out or there is a mental block, a cup of black coffee does wonders.
• Mood changer: Feeling down? Fret not, black coffee can lift sullen shoulders immediately.
• Fat burner: Going for a weight loss programme? Add black coffee to the diet and shed those extra kilos.
• Heart, brain and liver health: Coffee aids in the functioning of all these vital organs of the body.
• Dopamine dose: It is the ‘feel-good’ hormone that black coffee can provide the body. If exhausted, one cup would give that energy push although the effect is only for a short time.

Black zone

“Too much black coffee can harm the body. Two or three cups a day is what I suggest,” says Dr Ahuja. She lists other negatives.

n Palpitations: Any kind of overdose can make your heart pump faster and that leads to uneasiness.

• Anxiety: Too much black coffee can make one anxious and lead to nervous behaviour.
• Blood pressure: Those with high blood pressure issues should avoid black coffee.
• Dehydration: Too much caffeine will lead to a major loss of water from the body. Black coffee, therefore, should be consumed within limits.
• Sleep disorders: If you consume coffee late at night, there can be sleep deprivation and other issues.
• Acidity, digestion issues: Those having all these problems should not consume black coffee.

Is a daily dose needed?

Is it necessary that black coffee should be a part of daily diet? “No. If you feel like adding it to your diet you can, but it is not a requirement.” As for how to consume black coffee, Dr Ahuja says, “Boil the water separately or with coffee, but make sure you don’t take sugar with it. The latter adds lethargy and fat to the black coffee cup.”

Boost the flavour

“Add a tinge of extra virgin coconut oil to boost the flavour of your black coffee. It really works wonders,” tips Dr Ahuja.