Caffeine-The Good and The Bad

Caffeine – The Good And The Bad

You’ve heard it all before. Caffeine is addictive, it’s bad for your body and it can cause headaches, tremors, restlessness and even anxiety. The catch is that many of the foods that contain caffeine naturally are not necessarily bad for you. In fact, some are considered excellent inclusions for dietary routine.

So, what’s your best approach to caffeine? Should you swear off coffee, green tea and even dark chocolate because it contains caffeine naturally? Can you keep these things in your menu and reap the benefits they have to offer?

Total avoidance of caffeine containing foods and beverages is not typically necessary. Some medical conditions may call for total avoidance, but this is not generally the case. Considering the benefits many natural sources of caffeine have to offer, moderation might very well be your best approach.

When you understand the potential benefits of the foods that naturally contain caffeine, moderation will make sense. Green tea, dark chocolate and even coffee do pack in some health perks that are hard to ignore.

Coffee Isn’t All Bad

Coffee gets a very bad rap because of the caffeine it contains. Studies touted by the Mayo Clinic, however, point to the fact that coffee does contain natural antioxidants, as well. These antioxidants can help reduce inflammation. They are also considered valuable in reducing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Some studies have even found that coffee offers some protection for the brain from memory loss. While it’s best to limit coffee intake to only a couple of cups a day, this drink might be worth keeping in routine. Just refrain from loading it up with sugar and heavy cream!

Green Tea Helps With Weight Loss

This is considered one of the best sources of natural antioxidants going. It does, however, contain some levels of caffeine. This particular drink has been shown to help reduce the risk of cancer, cardiovascular conditions, diabetes and other serious conditions. It has also been shown to help people lose weight, thus, assisting in overall health improving efforts. While it contains a modest amount of caffeine, it can be well worth leaving in your menu.

Dark Chocolate Is A Vice With A Twist

If you have a sweet tooth and can’t seem to give up chocolate, consider going with the dark variety. Dark chocolate does contain caffeine, but it also boasts high levels of antioxidants that can help prevent some forms of cancer and heart disease. It has also been shown to reduce blood pressure levels. The antioxidants in dark chocolate are negated by milk consumption though so make sure these two things don’t mix.

While caffeine can have negative effects on the body, many of the foods that contain it naturally are actually good for you. Cutting them out of the diet completely to avoid caffeine at all costs just might not be the wisest course of action unless there is a prevailing medical condition that demands it. If you are working with a Pilates teacher to improve your health and lose weight, discuss the possibilities keeping healthy sources of caffeine in your diet.

About the Author

Conni Ponturo is the owner of The Absolute Yoga & Pilates Studio in Woodland Hills Ca.  If you’re ready to begin your fat loss journey please call 818-226-0695 right now to receive a complimentary nutrition and fitness Consultation.

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