In winters we all love to drink a hot cup of coffee full of aroma and flavor. But we cannot resist it even if it 70 degrees outside. Most of us begin our day with freshly brewed coffee. Following are some of the benefits of drinking coffee, based on studies.

Pros of drinking coffee

* Coffee has antioxidant nutrients. Coffee also contains polyphenols, substances that may reduce the risk of cancer and coronary artery disease.

*It can relieve a headache. Several studies show that, the combination of aspirin and caffeine relieves pain significantly better than aspirin alone.

*It may reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes. Coffee contains hundreds of compounds all different from each other. It has not be discovered which one is protective. Coffee contains minerals such as magnesium, potassium and other micronutrients that have health benefits.

* The cases of Parkinson's disease were found to be lower in those who drank coffee.

*Coffee contains tannin and antioxidants which are beneficial for heart. It may pose serious threat to people who over do caffeine or are extra sensitive to caffeine.

*It is good for the liver- can prevent gallstone. Drinking two to three cups of caffeinated coffee a day lowered the risk of developing gallstones by 40%, the researchers concluded that several mechanisms may be responsible for this result.

There are certainly some cons of drinking coffee

* Drinking coffee can interfere with getting a good night’s sleep.

*When habitual coffee drinkers try to quit drinking coffee, they can develop mild to severe headaches, sleepiness, irritability and nausea.

* Caffeine also increases the levels of the stress hormone adrenaline which may also impair the action of insulin. Too much caffeine, therefore, can cause symptoms associated with anxiety. Too much caffeine can give you the jitters.

*Studies have shown drinking too much coffee can raise cholesterol levels your coffee may be contributing a small amount of fat - milk, whole milk, creamer and sugar.

*It also increase the risk of osteoporosis (which means bones with holes) or brittle bone disease due to lack of calcium. Large amount of caffeine intake has also been associated with osteoporosis.

What you should know?

*It is important to point out that coffee should not be taken in excess during pregnancy.

* Patients with stomach ulcer are advised to see you doctor if you intend to start drinking coffee.

* If you have dry skin drinking coffee can dehydrate your skin further. To prevent this drink more water.

* Which does not mean people should drink large amounts of coffee every day. Do not drink more then 2-3 cups of coffee a day.

Drink responsibly!