Tuesday, July 26, 2011

4 Big Brain Benefits of Healthy Coffee

benefits of coffeeCan Coffee beans be brain food? Clinical studies show that coffee can help to prevent certain types of diseases, such as type-2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and some types of cancer. But can healthy coffee benefit your mind as well? Yes, and here are some of the ways it can benefit your cranium:

1. It contains antioxidants.

An antioxidant is a molecule that helps to prevent other molecules from undergoing oxidation. That’s because the process of oxidation can result in the production of “free radicals.” And those free radicals can launch chain reactions that can produce cell damage in our bodies. The problem is that our brains are particularly vulnerable to injuries that result from oxidation. That’s due to several factors, such as its incredibly high metabolic rate. This is the reason why various types of brain injuries are treated via antioxidants.

So by drinking healthy coffee, you can actually help to keep your brain healthy, and prevent damage to it. You might be surprised to learn that coffee is actually the top source of antioxidants in a typical American diet!

2. It may prevent Alzheimer’s Disease.

Several studies seem to indicate that drinking java may actually help to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease. But it gets even more interesting! It turns out that you’d need to drink about five cups daily, to maximize your protection from the disease. While the five-cups-a-day regimen may seem excessive, many coffee drinkers consume that much java on a regular basis. So it’s definitely doable.

3. It can improve your concentration.

Another brain benefit of healthy coffee is that drinking a moderate amount seems to improve one’s concentration levels. The operative word here is “moderate,” which should translate into one or two cups daily. In a recent study conducted at Pennsylvania State University, researchers learned that drinking one or two cups of coffee daily, can boost your focus and memory. On the other hand, those who drank a minimum of four cups of java daily actually had poorer memories!

4. It contains important vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

When we think about coffee, we tend to focus on the caffeine. That’s understandable, since caffeine consumed in excess can create an array of health problems. But in fact, the tiny coffee bean contains several powerful vitamins and minerals (Vitamin B3), which are crucial for our wellbeing. Another important component in the coffee bean is amino acids. These substances occur naturally in our bodies, and are contained in protein. Our bodies transform the amino acids in our foods, into a certain type of neurotransmitter within our brains.

So the next time you need to choose a beverage, consider that coffee is good for both the body and brain. It should definitely be some food for thought!

A Better You offers the best Healthy Coffee in the market today.If you are coffee lover needing to cut back on the caffeine but not wanting to cut back on the flavor, then you have definitely come to the right place. 

Pour yourself a cup of good health with our Ganoderma Coffee. Feel free to browse our Organo Gold Coffee selection now for more quality Ganoderma products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Kirzno

Friday, July 8, 2011

4 Big Brain Benefits of Healthy Coffee

Can Coffee beans be brain food? Clinical studies show that coffee can help to prevent certain types of diseases, such as type-2 diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and some types of cancer. But can healthy coffee benefit your mind as well? Yes, and here are some of the ways it can benefit your cranium:


1. It contains antioxidants.

An antioxidant is a molecule that helps to prevent other molecules from undergoing oxidation. That’s because the process of oxidation can result in the production of “free radicals.” And those free radicals can launch chain reactions that can produce cell damage in our bodies. The problem is that our brains are particularly vulnerable to injuries that result from oxidation. That’s due to several factors, such as its incredibly high metabolic rate. This is the reason why various types of brain injuries are treated via antioxidants.
So by drinking healthy coffee, you can actually help to keep your brain healthy, and prevent damage to it. You might be surprised to learn that coffee is actually the top source of antioxidants in a typical American diet!

2. It may prevent Alzheimer’s Disease.

Several studies seem to indicate that drinking java may actually help to prevent the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease. But it gets even more interesting! It turns out that you’d need to drink about five cups daily, to maximize your protection from the disease. While the five-cups-a-day regimen may seem excessive, many coffee drinkers consume that much java on a regular basis. So it’s definitely doable.

3. It can improve your concentration.

Another brain benefit of healthy coffee is that drinking a moderate amount seems to improve one’s concentration levels. The operative word here is “moderate,” which should translate into one or two cups daily. In a recent study conducted at Pennsylvania State University, researchers learned that drinking one or two cups of coffee daily, can boost your focus and memory. On the other hand, those who drank a minimum of four cups of java daily actually had poorer memories!

4. It contains important vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

When we think about coffee, we tend to focus on the caffeine. That’s understandable, since caffeine consumed in excess can create an array of health problems. But in fact, the tiny coffee bean contains several powerful vitamins and minerals (Vitamin B3), which are crucial for our wellbeing. Another important component in the coffee bean is amino acids. These substances occur naturally in our bodies, and are contained in protein. Our bodies transform the amino acids in our foods, into a certain type of neurotransmitter within our brains.

So the next time you need to choose a beverage, consider that coffee is good for both the body and brain. It should definitely be some food for thought!

A Better You offers the best Healthy Coffee in the market today.If you are coffee lover needing to cut back on the caffeine but not wanting to cut back on the flavor, then you have definitely come to the right place. 

Pour yourself a cup of good health with our Ganoderma Coffee. Feel free to browse our Organo Gold Coffee selection now for more quality Ganoderma products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Kirzno

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

The Best Selling Coffees in the US

Drinking coffee is a matter of taste, it is impossible to say that this brand is good and the other is bad, some people like it mild and others like it strong, some like it with an earth taste and others like it bitter. The truth is that there is no good or bad answer to which is the best coffee in the world. The top three coffee brands in the United States are chosen not because of their quality but because of their sales per year compared to others.


The top seller in the past three years is the Via Ready brew which is sold by Starbucks. The blend was introduced to the market in 2009 and made one hundred million dollars in that year alone. Today in 2011, it has more than doubled and almost tripled its sales. It is prepared in espresso machines and also in pods for people to serve themselves. The blend of coffees used is a secret which belongs to Starbucks. It is a medium roast coffee with little color and an earthy taste. It is terrific to be able to make all those specialty coffees Starbuck’s makes and sells in your home.

Second in line is the Caribou blending which is owned and sold by Green Mountain Coffees. This is also a medium roast blend with great taste and aroma. It is made by Green Mountain for home use with percolators; it is ground for espresso machines and for pods too. You will find it in Dunkin Donuts pods all over the country in the fall of 2011. If it is accepted and liked by Dunkin Donut customers it will probably become number one in the country. Caribou sales in grocery chains and independent stores produced over $120 million in 2010.

The third runner up followed by a very close behind fourth is Folgers, the fourth is Celestial Seasonings, these two are also owned and roasted by Green Mountains Coffees. They are both blended for use with espresso machines and pods; they are blended to be used in special Coffee shop drinks and mixes. Both coffees are for people who enjoy a mild, soft roasted brand with little bitterness and after taste. Sales in 2010, even with the recession almost reached the one hundred million level, the deal with Dunkin Donuts will probably send both of them over that line and beyond.

So go visit your nearest grocery store and enjoy one of the above mentioned brands of coffee. I think you will be glad you did! The other option is to visit your nearest Seattle’s Best or Dunkin Donuts for a fresh brewed cup of coffee that will certainly please your taste buds. While your at it enjoy a glazed doughnut as well.

Dave Lashier writes Espresso Machine Reviews for such machines as Mr Coffee Espresso Machine. Please visit EspressoMachineReviews.biz to find great prices on Espresso Machines!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dave_LaShier

Barista Training Classes – 5 Things To Look For

The term “barista” hails from the Italian language and refers in that language to a bartender who serves both coffee and alcoholic drinks. However, in North America, the term overwhelmingly refers to those who are adept at operating a commercial espresso machine and hand crafting specialty coffee beverages.
In fact, most coffee house baristas do much more than just make a superior shot of espresso. They now possess a wide-ranging set of skills, including how to make hand-crafted coffee using a French Press, Chemex or Hario V60 dripper, how to care for the espresso equipment, and how do latte art.
Given the dramatic rise in popularity of independent and chain coffee shops and coffee houses in the United States over the past two decades, there is an increasing number of employment opportunities for people to work as baristas.

People are attracted to working in the specialty Coffee industry for a number of reasons. Mastery of the ability to serve excellent coffee and espresso drinks takes time and training, so there is understandably a sense of pride that accompanies becoming an accomplished barista. Also, many people enjoy working in and around coffee houses, given the unique ambience and general feel that many of them possess.
If you are considering becoming a professional barista – or if you just want to learn how to make an amazing shot of espresso – you will benefit from getting the proper training in advance.
Here are 5 things to look for in barista training classes:

1. Focuses on a range of required techniques:

Anybody who has ever observed a barista in action may be tempted to underestimate the various feats being performed before their very eyes. A good barista can make it all look so simple. However, there is much to know in order to master the skills of a professional.
Make sure that the barista training class you are considering exposes you to the following skill sets: Espresso history, science and theory, grinder and espresso machine basics, grinder adjustment, proper espresso distribution and dosing, tamping technique, shot timing and extraction, proper milk steaming and texturing, pouring technique, classic drink preparation (espresso, cappuccino, latte, macchiato, Americano, and mocha), latte art, equipment cleaning, and customer service. You should also check to make sure the barista training classes you are considering also cover some of the other coffee brewing methods such as: hand pour-over drip coffee from a Chemex or a Hario V60, a French press, and a vacuum filtration siphon pot.

2. Exposes you to different types of machines and equipment:

As can be imagined, there is a wide range of different types of espresso machines and equipment on the market. A good barista training course will thoroughly explain components and specifications. It will also review how to select the appropriate equipment for different applications. And, it also covers machine cleaning and maintenance techniques.

3. Reviews management-level considerations:

The course should expose you to a general knowledge of coffee shop operations, coffee shop efficiency, coffee sourcing, finding good suppliers, and preserving coffee freshness and quality through proper storage.

4. Small class sizes:
 
Particularly important is to look for a coffee school that offers small class sizes. Ask about their ratio of instructors to students.
 
5. Tailored to different student needs and learning styles:

Finally, ask about their teaching philosophy. The coffee school you choose for your training class should be one that places an emphasis on each student’s unique learning style. You need patient instructors who understand that each student has varying levels of background knowledge about the coffee business – and each one takes in information differently. You should avoid schools offering one-size-fits-all teaching styles for your training experience.

Consider these 5 things to look for in your next barista training class.

To find more from Tom Vincent or to learn more about coffee education, barista training, and coffee company consulting – check out Texas Coffee School or follow Texas Coffee School on Facebook and Twitter (@TXCoffeeSchool).


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Vincent

Image Credit: shellhouse.org

Friday, June 3, 2011

Coffee & Caffeine – The Elixirs of Strife

How much coffee can one nation drink? Why not have a cup or ten? Have you noticed that you are on edge, quick to bark or bite and have trouble sleeping? Me, too. It’s all about our coffee consumption, also known as caffeine overdosing. Gotta have that buzz. It’s an addiction, no two ways about it.


Caffeine is one of the most powerful stimulant drugs around, as if you didn’t know. Thank God it’s legal. But, we are caffeinating ourselves at a very self-destructive rate on a daily basis. We could not work without it. We could not “relax” without it. The more you drink, the more you want, the more you need. We all know that the best jolt comes after the first cup. After that, the effects are quite diminished. It just gets to be absurd having to drink, drink, drink one more cup. But, we do.

I love nothing more than getting up early (because I can’t sleep worth a darn, and never have) and firing up the computer right along with a nice strong pot of mud made from gourmet beans that I grind myself. It smells so good and tastes so good, for a while anyway. Then, the tension mounts. I am jumpy. My hands have tiny caffeine tremors, my gut is burning, and then I get hungry. Yes, Coffee really does increase your appetite, especially when you’ve been sitting at a computer letting words pour off your finders for hours. It’s an endless cycle.

I absolutely know my life would be much better if I could give it up. But, being the man of many vices that I am, I realize it’s gonna be one steep uphill climb and a half. I’ve done it before. And, it really pays off. You actually end up having much more energy naturally than drinking cup after cup can ever give you. The caffeine buzz is fleeting while the natural one is not.

And, then there’s the weight thing. The exhilaration gives way to tension then immense hunger. All the exercise in the world can’t combat that, though I keep trying to offset this unending cycle. What would it feel like to be naturally buzzed? From my past experiences, it’s quite nice. But then, you smell one too many whiffs of great-smelling java and you’re toast. And, the rush from that first cup after abstinence is almost too much to describe. Man, it is so awesome. But, it’s not only very self-destructive, it’s a lie, dang it.

I really am into making some big dietary changes to my life. I’m sick of huffing and puffing during racquetball, skiing, biking and walking up stairs. I need to lose 40 pounds…at least. I look forward to it. But, it won’t be easy. It’s a risk-reward kind of thing. Maybe if I can just get through the withdrawal process, weaning myself little by little, and then start reaping the rewards, I’ll be on my way to a new habit-forming lifestyle of healthy choices without that demon coffee plaguing me and begging to rejoin my life.

Tobacco, you’re next!

Grant Brad Gerver is an entrepreneur and creative consultant for Filibi, an online classified and coupon advertising site and free home business paying 70% commissions to its members. He’s also a YouTube blues singer-songwriter and guitar player (gbgerver) who performs with The Buzzard Brothers. Additionally, Grant writes political humor, thousands of bumper stickers, and humorous movie reviews. He has also worked with various companies as a product-naming specialist. He’s a retired elementary school teacher and published children’s author who works in the health care field.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Grant_Gerver

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Does Coffee Have Antioxidants?

Coffee is chock-full of healthy antioxidants. It has been said to be an American’s largest source of antioxidants; with bananas coming in at a distant second. Our favorite morning beverage is naturally rich with polyphenols, powerful molecules that prevent the damage caused to our bodies by those infamous “free radicals.”
In scientific yet simple terms, free radicals are unstable molecules that are by-products of our metabolism and produced when our cells grow and die. These unstable molecules want nothing more to become stable again so they bond with other healthy molecules resulting in cell damage, disease, and aging.
Diseases and conditions attributed to free radical damage include:
  • Heart Disease
  • Parkinson’s Disease
  • Type 2 Diabetes
  • Colon Cancer
  • Increased Incidence of Gallstones
Antioxidants stabilize the free radicals preventing them from doing damage to our healthy tissue. Our bodies produce their own natural antioxidants to combat the free radicals but we can get extra from consuming plant-based foods, including coffee.
In addition to the prevention of the disease as we mentioned, antioxidants also:
  • Invigorate the Immune System
  • Inhibit Overall Aging of Cells and the Body
  • Boost Immune System
  • Improve Blood Flow
  • Improve Eye Sight
  • Slow Down Bone Loss
Not only is coffee natural high in these beneficial antioxidants but it has been found that the roasting processing creates its own healthful compounds. Coffee is purported to have more antioxidants than green tree. If you’d rather avoid caffeine, go for a decaffeinated brew for the same benefits. Other foods in which you will find antioxidant nutrients are fruits and vegetables, nuts, seed oils, whole grains, lentils, and beans.
Elizabeth Dennis writes for a variety of home and garden topics. If you are looking for replacement pots for your favorite coffee maker, jump over to our website now. Find some fantastic deals on Braun replacement pots.


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Elizabeth_Dennis

Monday, May 16, 2011

Coffee and 10 Health Facts

Coffee, like red wine, is a drink with both health benefits and dangers. Because coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant, it can increase the heart rate, boost adrenaline and up your cortisone levels. With this increased stimulation comes both pros and cons.


To learn more about the health impact of coffee, keep reading for 10 critical health facts about coffee.

1. Reduced Risk of Developing Alzheimer’s Disease

A recent study published in the European Journal of Neurology shows that people who drank about 2 cups of coffee per day were less likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease when compared to people who only drank a cup a day or less.

2. Better Cognitive Performance

There may be another reason why students guzzle coffee during late-night study sessions – those who drink coffee regularly often perform better on short term memory recall, verbal memory and logical reasoning tests.

3. Increased Constipation

While Coffee is a stimulant and can therefore stimulate the bowels, it is also a diuretic, meaning it can dehydrate the body and contribute to constipation. However, alternative medical practitioners often prescribe coffee enemas to clear out the colon. 

4. Antioxidants

Coffee contains a number of antioxidants, particularly methylpyridinium which is formed during the roasting process.

5. Increased Anxiety or Sleep Problems

People suffering from anxiety or insomnia should not drink large amounts of coffee or caffeine products, especially after noon. Because it’s a stimulant, it can keep you up and give you coffee jitters if drunk in excess.

6. Reduced Risk for Parkinson’s Disease

A recent study showed that heavy coffee drinkers, those drinking more than 3 cups a day, were less likely to develop Parkinson’s Disease when compared to non coffee drinkers or light drinkers.

7. Increased Cholesterol

The health risk of increased cholesterol only applies to coffee brewed with a French press. Coffee made with a regular paper filter tends to trap the brew’s natural oils, therefore not causing as high of a cholesterol risk.

8. Reduced Risk for Gout

Thanks to its diuretic and stimulant properties, regular coffee consumption has been shown to reduce the incidence of gout in men.

9. Stained Teeth

Coffee will stain your teeth. While this isn’t a health risk, it can adversely affect your teeth and their natural enamel. No doubt your dentist will routinely remind you of this drawback.

10. Pain Killer

If you read the ingredients for many over-the-counter painkiller medications, you’ll see they contain caffeine. This is because coffee and caffeine increase the effectiveness of these medications despite the need to be cautious of excess.

For additional informative details on coffee and enticing flavors that explode your taste buds, please visit [http://www.coffeetryst.com] a popular site with insights on coffee options, such as flavored decaf coffee [http://www.coffeetryst.com/flavored-decaf-coffee.shtml], gourmet coffee gift baskets, and many more!


Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wesley_Johnson