Coffee - The Science - (Part 2 of 2)

Sounds miraculous doesn't it. Drink from the dark liquid and not only will you wake up your weary brain, but additionally other research indicates you may also be helping to reduce your chances of getting colon cancer and Parkinson's Disease by 25 and 50 per cent respectively. So at a cursory glance it appears that becoming a cross between Superman and Arnold Schwarzenegger is as easy as a trip to your nearest coffee bar. And whilst you may not feel energetic enough just yet to run for Governor of California, (at least ten cups a day for that one) It does seem that there is more to this black stuff then just an enormous global market.

Now, like all miracles that we want to believe, but find ourselves sceptical about, the mixed messages come thick and fast. It is equally easy to find studies that say that coffee can potentially harm blood vessels, exacerbate stress levels, and elevate blood pressure levels. And that because of all the pesticides that are routinely sprayed on coffee crops that you are taking all sorts of harmful chemicals into your system. What's more go overboard on downing it and you will be leeching calcium from your bones, and also potentially have fertility problems if you are a woman. Go to most health seminars and one of the first things they will tell you is of the dire consequences of drinking caffeinated beverages like coffee. A knowing, and concerned look descends over the face and they will gently explain this stuff to you in short words (because you drink it, so clearly you cannot be very bright)

So now both of us are thoroughly confused. What is the truth? Should you be scared of coffee and keep a pistol in your pocket to shoot down any cups that people try to force on you at work. Or should you be on an intravenous drip of pure espressos buzzing you throughout the day?