by Jon Herring
Checking out at the grocery store yesterday, I came across a tabloid headline that read, “Coffee is Healthier than Vegetables.” The article referenced a Pennsylvania study that measured the antioxidant content of 100 common foods and beverages, as well as the per capita consumption of those foods. The study showed that coffee is by far the number one source of antioxidants in the American diet.
However, this study serves as more of a denunciation of the American diet than a justification of coffee as a health food. What it really means is that Americans drink a lot of coffee and eat too few fruits and vegetables. While coffee may be rich in antioxidants, it should be obvious that vegetables have far more nutritional value with a higher content of vitamins, minerals and fiber and active phytochemicals.
While one or two cups may have some benefit, studies have linked excess coffee consumption to high blood pressure, increased risk of stroke, rheumatoid arthritis, and elevated cholesterol levels. If you choose to drink coffee, here are some things to remember:
- Use stevia instead of sugar or artificial sweeteners
- Do NOT use "non-dairy creamers." They are made with hydrogenated oil. Stick to cream or milk.
- Buy organic coffee. Most commercial coffees are contaminated with pesticides.