Forget the idea of coffee as a simple morning fuel: new scientific evidence show how this drink can have a protective effect on a cellular level.
A team of researchers from the Queen Mary University of London has recently released the results of a fascinating study published in the scientific journal Microbial cell. The discovery? The caffeine contained in coffee, as well as in tea, chocolate or cola -based drinks, would be able to activate an intracellular system called ampk, fundamental for regulation of energy in the cells.
This system, described by researchers as a sort of biological “energy saving mode”, helps cells to manage their metabolism, to repair damaged DNA and reduce oxidative stress, thus contributing to greater cellular longevity. It is as if a simple espresso said to the cells: “Stop, regenerated, breathe, recharge”. And all this, with a minimum expense: just under 5 euros for a pack of coffee in the supermarket.
Curiously, the study has not involved human subjects, but yeast cells, simple organisms but with biological processes very similar to ours as regards the management of energy. It is precisely in these organisms that caffeine has shown its ability to stimulate the ampk, differentiating themselves from other compounds that act on the Tor system, known to regulate cell growth.
Not just energy
The advantages of coffee go far beyond the morning awakening: numerous studies confirm positive effects on cardiovascular and metabolic health.
The link between caffeine and health does not stop at cellular longevity. Several clinical studies indicate that moderate coffee consumption can:
With this in mind, the daily cup becomes more than a social rite or a simple moment of pause. It could in fact represent a small daily gesture in favor of general well -being. Of course, like everything, it is good not to exceed.
The right amount of coffee: how much can we drink without health risks?
Caffeine is good, but only if assumed in moderation. Overcoming the recommended doses can cause unpleasant side effects.
EFSA (European food safety authority) recommends not exceeding 400 mg of caffeine a day, equivalent to about four cups of filter coffee for a healthy adult. Exceed this threshold could involve side effects such as:
Individual differences in the metabolism of caffeine are also to be considered: some people dispose of it very slowly. So if your friend can drink an espresso at midnight and sleep like a child, it doesn’t mean that it is worth the same for you too.
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