The Benefits of National Coffee Consumption
The history of coffee is as rich as the drink itself. Coffee originated in the Kaffa region of Ethiopia, then made its way to the Middle East, arriving in Europe in the 17th century.
While already an important part of everyday Ethiopian life, the coffee bean's entrance in Vienna, Austria, would enable coffee to establish a pivotal role in ongoing social and political movements in Europe.
Coffeehouses developed rapidly in Europe and in the Middle East as points of meeting for thinkers from all backgrounds - individuals (educated or not), academics, aristocrats, and, for the first time, commoners - came together to talk about art, religion, social events, and politics.
In most countries, with Germany as an exception, women were not allowed to partake in coffeehouse based proceedings.
Coffeehouse conversations became so informative and influential that governments and religious leaders attempted to outlaw coffeehouses to decrease the risk of customers speaking ill of their authority.
However, coffeehouse traditions had become so embedded across the continent that the royal ban in the United Kingdom lasted only one week.
Coffee, its consumption, and the ever evolving social interactions triggered by its utilization, has been a prevailing aspect contributing to norms in every day society.
In fact, the social health benefits of coffee are clear; benefits no longer consigned solely to men.
A common love of the coffee brew can bring people together to swap ideas and rise against hardships. And today, we know that the coffee brew may offer physical health benefits as well.
Coffee Research
Coffee is a multifaceted drink that is made up of more than two hundred different molecules.
A number of those molecules are flavonoids - a kind of antioxidant that may have heart healthy or immune defensive properties.
Research is in progress to establish whether antioxidants actually shape our health in a positive way and how the flavonoids in coffee measure up to to those in fruits and vegetables.
Studies suggested a reduction in mortality in people who drink more coffee.
Most of the existing research into the probable health benefits of coffee measures the relationship of coffee consumption with health benefits rather than whether it causes benefits.
The connection between coffee consumption and decreased mortality likely involves other lifestyle factors such as the consumption of a
healthier diet, exercising more frequently, or having better access to health care.