The Benefits and Side Effects of Coffee Beans

Coffee beans are full of health benefits. They can boost cognitive function and decrease the risk of heart disease. A high intake of beans can lead to sleep problems and anxiety.

The taste of coffee may vary depending on the terrain, elevation and cultivation methods. The plant's species also influences its taste.

Origin

Coffee beans are the seeds of a tropical evergreen plant. They are ground and roasted to make the most well-known coffee drink that is enjoyed all over the world. Coffee is the third most sought-after drink in the world, and is one of the most profitable international commodities. It is famous for its invigorating effect, caused by the alkaloid caffeine.

The most widely-respected origin story of coffee is of an Abyssinian herder of goats named Kaldi. He noticed his animals became more active after eating berries from certain plants. He experimented with the berries himself and found them to be energetic, so he began cultivating the plant and making coffee.

In the 16th century the coffee was transported eastwards to the Arabian Peninsula where it was grown on the Yemeni peninsula. It grew further, and the first coffee houses were opened. These gathering places were from the taverns in Europe and focused on deep discussion and fast-paced thinking.

Today most of the world's coffee production comes from two kinds of plant called Arabica and Robusta. They thrive in an area known as the Bean Belt, which spans an area between the Tropic of Cancer and Capricorn.

Types

There are a variety of coffee beans and each one has its own distinct flavor profile. The regions where the beans are grown have a significant influence on their flavors. Ethiopian coffee, for instance is renowned for its floral notes and citrus as well as its citrusy notes. Colombian beans are full-bodied with a strong acidity and a balanced acidity.

Coffee beans are harvested from a variety of ways, and some are processed to enhance the flavor. Some beans are dried, roasted and then ground. Others are frozen and ground later. Depulping involves polishing beans to remove silvery skin. The beans are then sorted and graded by size and weight, and any imperfections are eliminated either by hand or by machine.

In contrast to the Arabica plant, Robusta plants can grow at lower altitudes and are more resistant to pests. They also contain more caffeine than Arabica beans, and are typically used in blends or instant coffees. However more and more coffee drinkers are enjoying the distinctive flavor and top quality of single origin coffees.

Flavor

Coffee beans can be filled with a variety flavors that add new dimension to dessert, drinks and food recipes. The best type of bean to use in a recipe will depend on the desired flavor profile and how the recipe will be used.

The coffee bean is actually a seed containing minerals, proteins and lipids as well as pollysaccharides. The seed is protected by silverskin, which is removed during roasting. When the seeds are exposed to heat they trigger the process of forming a chain reaction that create their aroma, flavor and color.

Natural coffee flavors are highly sought-after by purists. It is possible to flavor roast coffee beans using artificial flavors. To enhance the flavor of the beans in a batch the roaster sprays beans with a flavored oil. The flavored oil is then be mixed into the beans to ensure that it is evenly dispersed. The beans are then chilled then ground before being packaged. The coffee beans with a flavor can be brewed to make the flavor of your coffee, or consumed as snacks without being brewed.

Health benefits

Coffee beans are chock full of caffeine which is a powerful stimulant that can increase energy and improve mood. They also contain phenolics, which are antioxidants that protect cells from damage. According to the National Institutes of Health, these compounds are linked to the lower risk of developing cancer and heart disease.

The coffee seeds plant are contained in an apple that looks like an apple. The fruit usually has two seeds that are arranged flat against one another. Some fruits only have one seed. These are called peaberries. Peaberries yield a weaker, less flavorful cup of coffee.

Roasting coffee beans changes their flavor, making them more pleasing to the palate. Roasting coffee beans makes them easier to digest by the body.

Coffee beans are a source of phenolic compounds that inhibit glucose formation in the liver and lower cholesterol levels. They are also thought to lower the chance of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and cirrhosis and may even decrease the risk of developing gallstones. Coffee beans are a great source of potassium, riboflavin, and B vitamins. They are also high in fiber.

Side effects

The seeds of the coffee plant are often used to light roast coffee beans and brewed into the popular beverage. The consumption of coffee is linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and liver disease. However, the caffeine found in bulk coffee beans that is brewed can cause undesirable side effects like jitters, high blood pressure, and heartburn for some people. Green coffee bean extract is a non-caffeinated alternative that has shown to have many of the same benefits as brewed organic coffee beans without the negative side effects.

Coffee beans contain a variety of nonvolatile and volatile compounds which protect them from the effects of oxidation, insecticides and diseases. These chemicals also contribute to their flavor. Nonvolatile chemicals form a wax-like covering on the surface of the coffee beans. This covering deters many insects from eating the beans, and also helps the beans retain moisture.

The fatty acids found in coffee beans are converted to energy when the beans are roast. This energy boosts mental performance. It also stimulates the release adrenaline, which is an adrenaline hormone that helps prepare the body for physical activity. Additionally the chlorogenic acid present in green coffee beans might reduce fat absorption and slow down the release of sugar in the digestive tract.