How do you take your coffee? A strong espresso to give you a quick kick? Are you more of a Latte kind of person to enjoy that creamy texture? Or do you prefer that old school french press coffee?

However you take it there isn't a more satisfying thing to do in the morning then brew yourself a fresh cup of coffee. But why is it that we crave a hot cup of coffee in the mornings? Are we addicted to caffeine? Is it merely routine, or does it help you wake up?

Does The Type Of Coffee Influence Its Effects

Firstly the caffeine that comes from the coffee beans is derived from oils within the bean. These oils are extracted in different concentrations depending on the brewing method. Higher pressure from say an espresso machine extracts more of the oils from the bean hence its strength. While methods like French Press, Siphon, Chemex will give you less caffeine due to the absence of pressure. 

Does the amount matter? YES, the dose of caffeine does matter. Some people over time grow accustomed to caffeine, and its effects on the brain and body lessen. On the other hand, some people can not handle a high dose (such as espresso coffee) as it gives them side effects like trembling, anxiety, irritability and more.

It Is True! Coffee Wakes You Up and Keeps You Awake

So if you are one of the many who can enjoy the benefits of caffeine in the morning what it will do for you? Well, caffeine being a stimulant it will give you a morning boost, but did you know it also prevents sleep as well? One reason why coffee in the morning feels so good is that caffeine molecule is similar to adenosine which is a chemical that helps us feel sleepy. The caffeine particles plug the receptors in our brain where this sleepy molecule would typically go, thus preventing us from sleeping. 

Caffeine Helps You Feel Happier Longer

Another great benefit of caffeine is that it helps prevent the reuptake of dopamine in the brain. This helps the chemical linger in the brain longer literally making us happier. Have you ever heard the expression that someone is grumpier when they haven't had coffee? Well, maybe they have a point! Steer clear until they have had their morning coffee! This effect on the brain is also why we crave coffee, especially in our zombie-like state in the mornings. We need a hit of dopamine to lift us and get us going in the mornings. The addiction then isn't to caffeine but the spike of dopamine that it gives us and helps us keep floating around our system.

Coffee Is Health In A Cup

A standard cup of coffee is incredibly rich in antioxidants, according to Healthline. These antioxidants are known to help prevent diseases such as Alzheimer's, Type-2 Diabetes, Heart Disease and more. The density of antioxidants found in coffee makes it one of the richest sources of antioxidants in the world. It is so healthy that some studies have suggested regular coffee drinkers have a longer lifespan than those who do not. So even more reason to drink that extra cup of coffee throughout your day!

Did You Know?

The humble coffee bean is made mostly of cellulose, which is just the scientific term for wood.