Many of us cannot even dream of functioning without our morning cup of coffee. Billions of cups of coffee are consumed every single day, making it one of the most popular drinks—and habits—around the globe. It comes as no surprise that nearly 83% of the American population are coffee-drinkers, bestowing the duty of fueling the nation to those tiny brown beans.
Whether you buy your brew from Starbucks in the morning or make your own cup at home with your favorite handy coffee maker, coffee has become more than a caffeine fix for many people. In some ways, it is seen as a fixation in foodie culture, an inexpensive luxury item, and a comforting part of our routines. But in addition, coffee is good for our health, benefiting our mind, body, and spirit, and it is a resource that can be utilized in an environmentally friendly way too.
Health Benefits of Drinking Coffee
Many people are aware that coffee is loaded with antioxidants and other nutrients that can be advantageous to our health. Coffee beans contain the antioxidant Chlorogenic Acid (CGA), which can help with weight loss and reducing inflammation in the body. The caffeine that is found in coffee beans can reduce headaches and, obviously, make you more energized.
Studies by the American Diabetes Association have even linked coffee drinking to lower risks for Type 2 diabetes. It has also been suggested that caffeine can reduce the risk of heart disease, strokes, and the risk of developing skin cancer or cancer in general. While drinking coffee cannot be relied upon to prevent these health issues, it’s always a good idea to do as much as you can for your body, and coffee can help that incentive.
Eco-friendly Ways to Use Coffee Beans
Besides all of the health benefits that can stem from drinking coffee, there are plenty of ways that coffee-drinkers can turn this habit into an environmentally friendly activity. Some ideas for lessening the effect of your coffee habit on the environment include:
- Try to drink less cups per day
- Buy local coffee to avoid increased shipping production on a global scale
- Look for organic and fair trade coffee brands
- Use a mug instead of a plastic or disposable cup
- Use eco-friendly fillers that are biodegradable
By incorporating these suggestions into your coffee routine, you can do your part in protecting the environment from the strains of manufacturing and harmful production. This way, you can focus on the positive health benefits that come with drinking coffee and not have to worry about the footprint you are leaving every time you drink a cup.
*Collaborative Post