Go ahead and have that shot of espresso—it may be good for you. While too much caffeine can contribute to ulcers, sleeplessness, and anxiety, research shows that moderate amounts can actually be helpful. Women who drank two to three cups of caffeinated coffee per day had 25 percent less risk of dying from heart disease than non-coffee drinkers, according to a report published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. That’s big news considering that 80 percent of Americans consume caffeine daily.
But, that’s not the only noteworthy discovery. When used as an ingredient in lotions and creams, caffeine reduces facial flushing due to the stimulant’s ability to restrict blood vessels in the skin. “For that reason, caffeine applied topically can be a tremendous boon to those who suffer from rosacea, which is caused by blood vessels which have lost their ability to contract,” says Leslie Baumann, MD, a former professor at the University of Miami’s Cosmetic Center.
Studies have also shown that a pregnant woman can consume coffee in moderate amounts without harming her developing fetus. Now there’s no reason why everyone can’t indulge in a morning cup of joe.
—Kristi Eaton
