Coffee

○History of coffee 

Coffee's origins trace back to the 9th century in the region of Kaffa (Kefa) in Ethiopia, where legend credits a goat herder named Kaldi who noticed his goats' energetic behavior after eating coffee cherries. The energizing effects of coffee spread by the 15th century to the Arabian Peninsula, especially Yemen, where coffee cultivation began and coffeehouses emerged as cultural hubs known as "Schools of the Wise." Coffee spread across the Middle East, Europe, and eventually globally through trade routes, becoming a worldwide staple drink by the 17th century. Different coffee cultures evolved, with ready-to-drink instant coffee becoming popular in the 20th century along with modern coffee-to-go 

○Uses of coffee 

Coffee is primarily consumed as a beverage in many forms (espresso, drip, instant, cold brew, etc.). It serves social, cultural, and ritualistic purposes in many societies. Beyond drinking, it is used in flavoring foods and desserts, cosmetics, fragrances, and even some pharmaceuticals due to its stimulating properties.

 ○ Chemicals present in coffee

Coffee beans contain hundreds of bioactive compounds including:

"Caffeine" The main stimulant responsible for coffee's energizing effects.

'Chlorogenic acids:'         Antioxidants with potential health benefits.

'Trigonelline'  Contributes to aroma and also has antibacterial properties.

'Diterpenes (cafestol and kahweol):' Affect cholesterol levels.

'Melanoidins' Formed during roasting, related to flavor and antioxidant activity[8].

○How does coffee reacts in body

When consumed, caffeine in coffee blocks adenosine receptors in the brain, reducing feelings of tiredness and increasing alertness and concentration. It stimulates the central nervous system, increases heart rate, and can elevate blood pressure temporarily. Coffee consumption triggers the release of dopamine and serotonin, improving mood and cognition. Some compounds impact metabolism and can enhance fat burning and physical performance.

  

○Health benefits of coffee

Moderate coffee consumption is linked to several positive health effects:

- Improved mental alertness and cognitive function.

- Reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's, Alzheimer's).

- Lower risk of certain cancers (liver, colorectal).

- Decreased risk of type 2 diabetes.

- Cardiovascular benefits through antioxidant effects.

- Potential protective effects on liver health

Coffee does have some potential downsides if consumed in excess, such as insomnia, anxiety, digestive issues, and increased heart rate, so moderation is key.