Coffee: is it good or bad for us? One study says it is, then another comes along stating it’s not.

It seems as if research on coffee keeps contradicting itself – that it is simultaneously the cause of and the cure to everything.

There is so much conflicting information out there that I want to give you my view, gained from my own experiences.

I hope to provide an insight into what I regard as the most sensible research into this subject.

Many people love a cup of coffee – and I’m one of them.

The problem is that there are far too many people completely addicted.

They are relying on at least three cups to get them through the day.

This can have a detrimental effect on fat loss, sleep and health.

Firstly, let take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of coffee.

As you’ll see, there are quite a few of both.

Advantages:
* No calories
* Elevates adrenaline and cortisol to enhance fat burning during exercise
* Loaded with antioxidants
* Aids liver phase I detoxification
* May lower the risk of diabetes
* Reduces depression
* Increases performance

Disadvantages:
* Adds sources of extra added calories from sweeteners and cream
* One of the most heavily sprayed with pesticide foods
* Can lead to blood sugar fluctuations followed by hunger and cravings
* Can deplete the body of minerals
* Is a source of exogenous oestrogens and can increase the risk of fibrocystic breasts
* Habit forming
* Can interfere with sleep patterns
* Can cause feelings of anxiety

People react differently to caffeine and it depends into which category they fall – fast metabolisers or slow metabolisers.

People who are fast metabolisers will do well with caffeine, whereas slow metabolisers are more likely to experience shakes, anxiety and buzzing sensations.

If you can handle it, black coffee pre-workout (minus food/additions) can boost the intensity and calorie-burn of the workout.

Just watch out for signs of low blood sugar levels such as light-headedness, dizziness, jitters and headaches.

So, drinking a black, ideally organic, coffee before training can have fantastic results for some people but not everyone.

You’ll know how you feel when you try it.

The times to avoid caffeine are straight after training because, at this time, your cortisol levels are very high.

This isn’t a bad thing but you do want to avoid elevating them further... and coffee will elevate cortisol levels.

If your cortisol levels are high, this is the stress hormone and you will find it difficult to shift body fat.

And, too much caffeine will keep your cortisol elevated throughout the day.

One or two organic coffees a day, without all the milk, sugar or cream added to them, will not have a negative effect on most people.

But remember, it is best to avoid drinking coffee after 2pm, otherwise it can affect your sleep.

If you are looking to lose body fat I suggest you cut out coffee altogether for at least 14 days so you become less dependant on it.

You will also completely cleanse your system and then, if you still fancy a coffee, go for organic either before exercise or just in the morning.