Coffee is brimming with antioxidants like chlorogenic acid, quinines and lignans. These protect the body against oxidative stress, which can lead to heart disease and cancer.
Honest, the top-selling organic bottled tea company, is entering the cold brew RTD coffee market. The company is launching three organic, USDA certified-organic flavors in recyclable 11-oz. bottles.
Caffeine
Caffeine is an effective stimulant that boosts energy levels and stimulates the brain. It works by blocking adenosine, which inhibits your brain cells from relaxing and releasing stimulating neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. It also helps reduce the risk of heart disease by decreasing cholesterol levels and blood sugar.
However, the effects of caffeine are highly individualized, and some people can have negative side effects, such as stomach aches and insomnia. In addition, pregnant women should avoid caffeine, as it may cause miscarriage and prevent conception.
Another concern is the use of chemicals in growing and processing coffee beans, including pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Organic coffee is grown without the use of these harmful chemicals and has a lower environmental impact.
The “USDA-Certified Organic” label indicates that at least 95% of the ingredients in a product are organically grown. Some roasters also carry the Rainforest Alliance and Bird-Friendly Habitat seals, which indicate that their source farms promote sustainability and protect the environment.
However, the organic certification process can be difficult for small farmers to complete due to high costs and lengthy paperwork, which can be challenging for non-English-speaking farmers. Additionally, many states have their own organic certification requirements, which may not match USDA standards.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are the body’s first line of defense against free radicals that damage cells and lead to disease. By neutralizing free radicals, antioxidants protect cells from oxidative stress and help prevent aging. Antioxidants are found in a variety of foods, including vegetables, berries, nuts and seeds, vegetable oils, tea, coffee, wine, cocoa, and sprouted grains.
The primary antioxidants in coffee are chlorogenic acids (CGA) and flavonoids. Both of these belong to the broader group of polyphenols. Polyphenols are naturally occurring plant compounds that have powerful antioxidant properties. They are beneficial for the immune system and help prevent diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic inflammation. There are over 8,000 known polyphenols in food, and coffee is rich in them.
Unprocessed coffee beans contain 1,000 antioxidants, and roasting adds hundreds more. Studies show that the antioxidant activity of coffee is higher than green tea and cocoa. Drinking two cups of organic coffee a day can give you the daily dose of antioxidants recommended for optimal health.
Many different in vitro and cell-based assays measure the antioxidant capacity of food or beverages. These assays include redox balance measurements, such as DPPH, ABTS, HO, and NBT, as well as transcription factors such as Nrf2 nuclear translocation, which induces Phase II enzymes involved in detoxification and antioxidant defense.
Heart health
A cup of coffee is a great way to start the day and to boost your energy. While coffee can be unhealthy if you drink too much, moderate coffee intake has been shown to have some impressive health benefits.
The health benefits of organic coffee include better cognition, weight loss, increased energy and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Research has also linked the beverage to reduced risks of certain cancers and to improved liver protection.
While there isn’t scientific proof that organic growing methods result in a healthier or better-tasting cup of joe, many coffee lovers swear that the beans taste fresher and more flavorful. They may even notice that the roast is more consistent and less acidic than non-organic varieties.
If you’re interested in trying organic coffee, look for the USDA-Certified Organic seal. However, remember that the seal only guarantees that at least 95% of the product is organic. Many roasters have their own certifications, such as Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance and Bird-Friendly Habitat, that may indicate a greater percentage of organic ingredients.
One local option is Equal Exchange coffee, which has a great medium roast from Rwanda and Nicaragua. Another option is Arboretum Early Bird, sourced from Central and South America where the coffee farmers are certified organic and shade-grown. They’ve also committed to preserving the birds’ migration habitats.
Brain health
Organic coffee is a great source of energy, helping to keep your mind sharp and improve performance. However, if you’re not careful about how much caffeine you consume, excess caffeine can cause restlessness, anxiety and even raise your heart rate. This is why it’s important to drink your coffee in moderation and look for organic options that use beans grown without pesticides, as many conventional coffee producers use harmful chemicals in their growing process.
Studies show that regular coffee consumption can decrease the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and boost thinking skills. Researchers have linked this to the fact that certain compounds in coffee — including caffeic acid and the amino acid L-theanine — help reduce stress and enhance focus and memory.
In addition, some brands offer functional ingredients like mushrooms and herbs to enhance the health-boosting properties of their coffee. For example, Four Sigmatic’s Brain Boost coffee contains Lion’s Mane and Chaga, two mushroom extracts with specific cognitive-enhancing benefits. They also include a proprietary blend of nine adaptogenic herbs that support the immune system and optimize overall well-being and performance.
Another option is London Nootropics, which has three coffees — mojo, zen and flow — each of which promises a different benefit. Mojo claims to support strength and endurance, zen is meant to combat stress and flow helps aid focus. The coffee comes in single-serve sachets, making it easy to add to your daily routine.
