Coffee is one of America’s favorite beverages. In fact, more than 400 million cups are consumed by Americans every single day.
For most people, it has almost become a routine to drink a cup in the morning and throughout the day.
So why do so many people drink coffee in the first place? Let’s explore that in greater detail.
Below are the top seven reasons.
1) The Feeling of More Energy
Perhaps the number one reason people drink coffee is to enjoy a nice energy boost, especially in the morning, as it can help you wake up after a nice long sleep.
It creates an energy boost because of the effects of caffeine on the central nervous system.
Caffeine blocks a particular neurotransmitter called adenosine, which is what tells the body to feel sleepy and tired.
So, if you drink caffeinated coffee, the neurotransmitter gets blocked and doesn’t make you feel sleepy anymore.
We all live busy lifestyles. If you have a lot of work and family responsibilities throughout the day, you may need to rely on coffee to make it through to the end.
2) Replace More Serious Addictions
People with drug or alcohol addiction often switch to coffee to beat those more severe addictions.
Caffeine is considered a psychoactive substance because it interferes with neurotransmitters and brain function in the central nervous system.
However, this could be a good thing for addicts of other psychoactive substances.
Switching to coffee can give you a small psychoactive high, making it easier to ignore the withdrawal symptoms of drugs or alcohol.
Although this withdrawal method might not work for everybody, it may work for you.
3) Encourages Social Engagement
The massive use of the internet and social media platforms have caused us to live in an isolated society.
Too many people spend more time staring at computer screens and smartphone screens rather than spending real-time with other human beings.
It has pretty much gotten to the point where people need an excuse to come together in person.
Cafes and coffee shops are still more popular than ever. If you want a reason to invite your friend or family member to meet up with you in person, you can always rely on a good cup of coffee to convince them.
It doesn’t even matter which shop you choose. Pick Starbucks or any local mom-and-pop café in your local area.
You certainly won’t be the only one because these are the places where most people still come to socialize in today’s society.
4) Comforting and Relaxing
Many people find drinking a hot cup of coffee comforting and relaxing by providing almost an instant feeling of satisfaction and relief when tired or stressed.
Meanwhile, the coffee will make you feel energetic and motivated to be productive throughout the day.
So if you are usually a lethargic person, coffee consumption can help you feel more motivated without feeling stressed.
5) Flavor Variety
Coffee comes in so many varieties these days. Aside from standard, you can find flavors like caramel, mocha, pumpkin, peppermint, French vanilla, Italian roast, hazelnut, etc.
It isn’t necessary to rely on cafes or shops to provide these options. Most supermarkets and many other companies now sell all these different flavors. That way, you can drink your favorite gourmet coffee at home.
6) Contains Health Benefits
Numerous studies have shown that coffee could potentially prevent neurodegenerative diseases in the brain, such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Studies also show that coffee lowers the risk of developing kidney stones and certain types of cancers, such as prostate cancer.
People are beginning to learn more about the associated health benefits giving them an additional reasons to drink coffee that they didn’t have before.
7) Caffeine Addiction
Caffeine addiction and dependency can develop amongst avid coffee drinkers. Unfortunately, many people could develop a caffeine addiction sooner or later.
Although it is not a severe addiction like drugs and alcohol, it can become difficult to quit.
The best thing to do is reduce your intake rather than eliminate it. A cup in the morning and afternoon should be enough to feed into the addiction without causing any adverse symptoms.
Conclusion
Coffee consumption has become part of American culture. Some people may call it a caffeine addiction, but the advantages of drinking coffee outweigh the disadvantages.
