In today’s article I’m going to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of… coffee. Many people love a cup of coffee – and I’m one of them.

The problem is there are far too many people completely addicted, relying on at least three cups to get them through the day. This can have a detrimental effect on fat loss, sleep and health.

First, let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of coffee and, 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 calories from sweeteners and cream One of the most heavily sprayed pesticide foods Can lead to blood sugar fluctuations followed by hunger and cravings Can deplete the body of minerals Is a source of exogenous estrogens and can increase the risk of fibrocystic breasts Habit forming Can interfere with sleep Can cause anxiety People react differently to caffeine and it depends into which category they fall – fast metabolizers or slow metabolizers.

People who are fast metabolizers will do well with caffeine whereas slow metabolizers 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 lightheadedness, dizziness, jitters and headaches. So, drinking a black, ideally organic, coffee before training can have fantastic results for some people. 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.

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