Digital News Report- San Francisco has ranked third in the nation for the most coffee consumption, just behind Seattle and Miami, according to the HealthSaver Caffeinated Cities Survey. However, San Francisco also ranked second for the least amount of cola consumed and third for the least amount of tea. Overall, this balances out to third place for cities across the country that are the least addicted to caffeine.
For a city that has a reputation for trendy coffee shops that are full on weekday afternoons, this makes sense. Perhaps you can call it ironic that I’m sipping my second cup of coffee as I write this story. But what does this mean for San Francisco?
Believe it or not, there are benefits to caffeine consumption. According to HealthSaver and health care experts, coffee and tea can lower the risk of diabetes, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, colon cancer, and cirrhosis of the liver, as well as enhances athleticism, endurance and performance. Antioxidants in coffee in particular can prevent free radicals from causing cell damage. It has also been said to lower the risk of cavities and cure headaches. Besides, it’s just a good pick me up.
“Even though at one time coffee was considered harmful to your health, at this point there is no compelling research to indicate that, in fact, is true,” said Dr. Peter R. Martin, Professor of Psychiatry and Pharmacology and the Director of the Institute of Coffee Studies, Vanderbilt School of Medicine. “Newer studies actually prove coffee in moderation is good for one’s health.”
There are down sides, however, that are associated with the caffeine. For one, caffeine is very addictive. Withdrawal symptoms include headaches, irritability, inability to concentrate, insomnia, and stomach pains. Too much caffeine can lead to the jitters or, if taken in high doses over a long period of time, can even cause ulcers.
Too much can even cause death. But how much is too much? You’d have to consume about 80-100 cups of coffee. This is mostly impossible, but some have managed to achieve this by taking caffeine pills. For the average coffee consumer, these dangers are a far and remote possibility.
So what’s the conclusion? Excuse me. I’ll have to get back to you. I need a refill.