Antioxidants

Antioxidant intake is integral towards optimum health. Coffee not only contains antioxidants, but it is one of the most significant sources in the Canadian diet!

Antioxidants are important elements that work inside the body combat toxic free radicals which can lead to many chronic diseases. Antioxidants present in coffee are in the form of polyphenols, a substance also found in a variety of plants. Research has indicated that coffee provides about 1,300 mg of polyphenol antioxidants daily based on moderate consumption.

Antioxidants in Coffee

The amount of antioxidants in coffee is four times the antioxidant content of green tea, and surpasses that of cocoa, other herbal teas, red wine, and even some fruit and fresh vegetables. Studies also indicate that the level of antioxidants is similar in both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee.  A major research study released in 2005 by a research team led by Joe Vinson, PhD, a professor of chemistry at the University of Pennsylvania, analyzed the amount of polyphenols in more than one hundred different foods and beverages. Coffee came out ahead, on the combined basis of both antioxidants per serving size and frequency of consumption.

According to another study conducted by the University of British Columbia, and released in the Journal of Food Research in 2011, the process of roasting coffee beans produces an abundance of “stable” antioxidants. In this case, research found that the Maillard reaction (a chemical process that in this instance occurs when green coffee beans are roasted under high temperatures) is the main source of protective antioxidants.

Since the presence of antioxidants may be tied to a host of health benefits including risk reduction for ailments such as liver and colon disease(s), type ll Diabetes, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease, enjoying even a couple of cups per day can be beneficial according to experts. The best advice for optimum health benefits is to practice moderation and include a variety of antioxidant rich sources in your daily diet.

The CAC is committed to providing accurate, scientifically validated information from reputable sources. This website is intended to relay the findings of independent research studies, and is not intended to make health claims or provide medical advice. If you have specific questions pertaining to your health, consult a medical professional.

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