Benefits from Antioxidants
Coffee is packed with health benefiting antioxidants. These substances are believed to play a major role on the quality of a person’s life. Antioxidants might be able to:
- Improve your immune system
- Enhance your physical appearance
- Increase your energy levels
- Boost your mental acuteness
- Improve your flexibility
All of these perceived benefits of antioxidants are crucial to the quality of life seniors lead. Besides antioxidants, coffee consists of the minerals chromium and magnesium. These minerals help the body utilize the hormone insulin. Insulin controls your blood sugar levels.
Caffeine Risks for Overconsumption
Coffee’s risks to seniors stems from the caffeine found in it. When consumed in large quantities, caffeine can have negative effects on an elderly person’s health. Drinking too much of a beverage containing caffeine can dehydrate you. Unfortunately, older people are more sensitive to differing levels of fluid in their bodies. Therefore, when they become dehydrated, seniors can get lightheaded. Sadly, being lightheaded can lead to damaging falls.
In addition to causing dehydration, caffeine stimulates your nervous system. This negative of caffeine can produce:
- Jittery nerves
- Heartburn
- An upset stomach
Consuming copious amounts of caffeine can also lead to:
- Elevated blood pressure
- Insomnia
- Diminished bone strength
- Anxiety
While water is the best drink for seniors, and younger people alike, to consume, drinking a cup of coffee is a beloved morning respite for many elderly adults. For many seniors, drinking coffee in moderation might be more beneficial than harmful. So, unless the doctor advises against consuming this popular beverage, you, or your aging loved one, should enjoy draining your cup each day without feeling guilty.