Caffeine found in coffee affects the central nervous system and also impacts cardiovascular activity. As a result, some individuals may experience symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, headaches, trembling hands, and feelings of unease after consuming coffee.
To produce coffee, the beans from the coffee plant (scientific name: Coffea arabica, family: Rubiaceae) are roasted and then processed into powder for brewing. Currently, there are instant coffee powders that dissolve completely in hot water without needing to be filtered. During the roasting process, a significant amount of water evaporates (approximately 18%), and the sugars in the beans undergo caramelization, resulting in dark brown coffee beans. This process also leads to chemical changes that give coffee its unique flavor profile.
Benefits
Coffee is consumed to enjoy its fragrant flavor, provide refreshment, and stimulate mental activity. The stimulating effects of coffee are attributed to compounds, with caffeine being the primary component. Although the caffeine content in coffee is lower than that in tea, it has a stronger stimulating effect because people typically use 10-15 grams of coffee to brew a small cup.
Caffeine acts as a central nervous system stimulant, promoting alertness and enhancing work performance, particularly in cognitive tasks, while also boosting physical activity. Therefore, after drinking a cup of coffee in the morning, you will feel invigorated and ready to tackle tasks. Additionally, to combat drowsiness during night work, a strong black coffee is considered an effective remedy.
Other beverages, such as carbonated drinks (Coca-Cola, energy drinks), also contain caffeine. Caffeine is also used in medications: many cold and pain relief medications contain it to enhance the pain-relieving effects of paracetamol and aspirin, or to reduce the sedative side effects of allergy medications.
Moreover, coffee is regarded as a beverage with nutritional value; black coffee alone contains 12% lipids (fats), 12% proteins (proteins), 4% minerals, with significant amounts of potassium and magnesium.
Drawbacks
Caffeine in coffee affects the central nervous system and cardiovascular functions. Individuals with heart disorders or caffeine intolerance should avoid coffee. Nowadays, decaffeinated coffee is available for those who enjoy drinking coffee but cannot tolerate caffeine.
Caffeine has a diuretic effect; therefore, it is advisable to avoid drinking coffee at night to prevent sleep disturbances.
Caffeine stimulates the secretion of gastric acid, so it is best to avoid coffee on an empty stomach. Those with sensitive stomachs should refrain from consuming coffee when hungry, as it can harm the gastric mucosa. Some people only drink coffee in the morning without having breakfast, which is detrimental to health and should be avoided.
Caffeine can interact with certain medications, such as diminishing the sedative effects of sleeping pills. Therefore, it is best to avoid drinking coffee while on medication.
