That morning cup of coffee can feel like a life saver – it’s taste, heat and bite can wake you up and help you start your day or get you through that midday slump. We already know about caffeine – and that lighter roast coffees contain more of it – but what else is in coffee beyond caffeine?
Quite a bit, actually. Here’s a quick breakdown of what else you’re getting in that coffee.
Vitamin B2, (Riboflavin)
An 8oz cup of coffee has 11% of your recommended daily dose of vitamin B2, an antioxidant that benefits you in several ways.
B vitamins are well-known for increasing energy levels. They also help you keep your blood cells healthy and contribute to a better metabolism. Furthermore, they help promote skin and eye health and are antioxidants.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Coffee contains about 6% of your recommended dose of vitamin B5. This will get your body producing healthy amounts of cortisol without additional stress. It also helps to balance cholesterol levels and maintain a healthy heart. Additionally, vitamin B5 also plays a key role in reducing cognitive decline, one of coffee’s key benefits.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamin)
One of the first compounds recognized as a vitamin, thiamin supports nerve and muscle health. Thiamin also helps your body metabolize carbohydrates and keeps electrolytes flowing in and out of your nerves. A daily cup of coffee, has 2% of your recommended dose.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
A digestive aid, vitamin B3 helps maintain a healthy appetite. It also supports your skin and nerve health, helping you maintain a healthy glow throughout the day.
Niacin also helps your mental health and your energy levels. Some doctors have used it to treat sexual problems such as Erectile Dysfunction, (ED) or impotence. What’s more is that it can also lower bad cholesterol along with the risk of heart attack.
Folate
Coffee only has 1% of your daily folate, but use that tiny serving to inspire good diet choices throughout your day. Folate has been named as a compound that combats depression, one Great coffee health benefit. Folate helps maintain a healthy heart and may prevent breast cancer. Let coffee be the beginning of a healthy lifestyle with a diet packed with foods high in folate.
Manganese
Your initial 2% of daily manganese can come from your morning cup. Manganese is a compound that helps build strength in the body’s bones, thus preventing osteoporosis. It also supports your immune system and keeps your hormones balanced, an act that benefits your overall health.
Potassium
You may not think of coffee as a stress reliever, but thanks to the 3% of your daily potassium with each serving, your favorite cup of coffee can help you keep you relaxed. It also keeps your electrolytes and nervous system at their peak as well as building muscles.
Magnesium
A cup of coffee contains 2% of the daily allowance of magnesium, which may also help fight depression and keep Type 2 Diabetes at bay. It’s also great for treating inflammation and helps promote muscle repair and sleep.