artificial insemination syringe
If you were to ask my partner or kids what I absolutely can’t live without, they’d all shout in unison: “coffee!” Sure, I enjoy my chips and a nice glass of wine, and binge-watching Netflix on a Saturday feels amazing, but if calamity struck and we were fleeing from zombies, I could forgo wine and chips without breaking a sweat. But I can assure you, even in a life-or-death scenario, I would definitely complain about not having my morning coffee.
Coffee is my lifeline—truly the last thing I’d ever sacrifice. So, it’s fantastic to learn that coffee actually comes with health perks, especially since I consume it daily as if it were my lifeblood.
According to a recent study highlighted by The New York Times, coffee consumption is associated with a lower risk of a variety of serious ailments, including Parkinson’s disease, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and even certain cancers. Additionally, Johns Hopkins Medicine points out that coffee may provide significant protection against Alzheimer’s disease, which disproportionately affects women. In fact, research indicates that women aged 65 and older who consume two to three cups of coffee daily may have a reduced risk of developing dementia.
But the benefits don’t stop there. A study involving over 200,000 participants found that individuals who drank three to five cups of coffee a day experienced a 15 percent lower risk of dying early from all causes compared to non-coffee drinkers. Similarly, Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that coffee drinkers are less likely to succumb to some major health threats, including coronary heart disease and stroke.
So, fellow moms, when you’re having one of those overwhelming days and think, “coffee is literally keeping me alive,” you might be onto something!
Moreover, coffee contains beneficial compounds like polyphenols and antioxidants. Polyphenols may inhibit cancer cell growth and help lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes, while antioxidants can combat inflammation, a major contributor to heart disease and cancer. The Cleveland Clinic also mentions that coffee is a good source of nutrients like B vitamins and potassium, making it a surprisingly excellent source of antioxidants in the American diet.
However, it’s important to note that medical professionals aren’t suggesting we rely solely on coffee to ward off diseases. A healthy lifestyle includes a balanced diet, hydration, exercise, and regular check-ups. This new research, as reported in The New England Journal of Medicine, flips the narrative on coffee’s health implications—turns out, coffee drinkers have more to celebrate than we ever knew!
But a word of caution: excessive caffeine can be harmful, especially during pregnancy. It’s often recommended that pregnant women limit their caffeine intake to no more than 200 milligrams a day. I personally chose to enjoy my coffee in moderation while pregnant, and it worked out just fine.
Too much caffeine can lead to sleepless nights and nutritional deficiencies. I remember my 20s when I was a waitress who survived on coffee alone. I was thin and constantly exhausted—definitely not the healthiest way to drink coffee!
So when experts say that coffee has health benefits, they’re referring to moderation. We still need to prioritize a good night’s sleep and a nutritious diet. Yes, I know that’s easier said than done for us busy moms, but it’s crucial.
Now that my kids sleep through the night, I kick off every day with my beloved coffee routine, and I’m proud to say that it’s part of a healthier lifestyle. Although I do indulge in flavored creamers that aren’t the healthiest, I’m willing to overlook that for the sake of my happiness.
The health benefits—like reducing the risk of heart disease and depression—are more than enough to justify that next cup. Speaking of which, I think it’s time for another one right now. Ahhh, I can feel the wellness flowing through me already!
For more information on home insemination, check out this insightful post. If you’re exploring options, consider visiting Cryobaby for their at-home insemination kit, which is an excellent resource for those looking to start a family.
And for more about intrauterine insemination, this Mayo Clinic resource is invaluable.