Coffee is more than just a morning ritual for many people around the world; it’s a beloved beverage that has a rich history and some truly surprising attributes. Whether you enjoy a robust espresso, a creamy latte, or just a simple black cup, coffee has more to it than meets the eye. Here are ten fascinating facts about coffee that might just surprise you.
1. Coffee Was Discovered by Goats
Legend has it that coffee was first discovered by a goat herder in Ethiopia centuries ago when he noticed his goats frolicking energetically after eating red coffee cherries.
2. Coffee Is a Fruit
Yes, you read that right! Coffee beans are actually the seeds of a berry that grows on bushes. They are extracted from the red or purple fruit commonly referred to as coffee cherries.
3. Second Most Traded Commodity
Coffee is the second most traded commodity in the world, following crude oil. Its widespread popularity underlines its global significance in the economy.
4. It Can Help Improve Your Physical Performance
Caffeine increases adrenaline levels in your blood, which prepares your body for intense physical exertion. Having a cup of coffee about a half-hour before you exercise can significantly boost your performance.
5. Coffee May Lower Risk of Certain Diseases
Research suggests that coffee drinkers may have a lower risk of diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, type 2 diabetes, and some forms of cancer.
6. Decaf Isn’t Completely Caffeine-Free
Decaffeinated coffee still contains caffeine, though much lower amounts. Typically, an 8-ounce cup of decaf coffee contains about 2-5 mg of caffeine, compared to 80-100 mg in regular coffee.
7. Coffee Is Great for Your Liver
Regular consumption of coffee is linked with a lower risk of cirrhosis, especially alcoholic cirrhosis. Drinking coffee can protect your liver from damage, potentially lowering the risk of liver cancer.
8. There Are Two Main Types of Coffee Beans
Arabica and Robusta are the two main varieties of coffee beans. Arabica beans are more popular and considered higher quality, offering a wider range of flavors and a lower caffeine content than Robusta beans.
9. Finland Is the World’s Top Coffee Consumer
Despite its small population, Finland consumes more coffee per capita than any other country in the world, with each person consuming several cups a day on average.
10. Coffee Was Once Considered Dangerous
In the 16th century, coffee faced bans in several countries including Mecca and Italy due to its stimulating effects, with critics fearing it might lead to radical thinking.
Conclusion
Coffee is not just a beverage; it’s a global phenomenon packed with fascinating secrets and benefits. Whether you savor it for its flavor, rely on it for a morning boost, or appreciate it for its health benefits, coffee surely deserves its spot as one of the world’s favorite drinks. Next time you sip your coffee, think about these interesting facts—you might just appreciate your cuppa even more!
