Great News For Our Favourite Morning Ritual
For millions of people, including Charles and me, the day doesn’t truly begin until that first delicious sip of hot, steaming coffee. Ahhh!
But for years, the pleasure of my morning brew has been offset somewhat by headlines that claim coffee is somehow bad for you: “It dehydrates the body!” “It’s hard on your heart!” “It leaches calcium from your bones!”
Well, the latest research is great news for those of us who love our cuppa joe. It turns out that coffee is a powerhouse for your brain, your bones, and your morning workout!
A Major Win for Brain Health
If you’re looking to keep your “mental gears” grinding smoothly, keep sipping. Recent data, including a massive long-term study published in JAMA in 2026, found that drinking 2–3 cups of caffeinated coffee daily is associated with an 18% lower risk of dementia and significantly better cognitive function. The antioxidants (polyphenols) in coffee help dampen inflammation in the brain, which is a total win as we navigate life over 50.
Fuel for Your Fitness
Caffeine is one of the most effective, science-backed ergogenic aids (performance enhancers) available. It works by lowering your “perceived exertion” – in other words, it makes a challenging hike or a set of squats feel a little bit easier! It also helps your body mobilize fatty acids to use for fuel, giving you that extra bit of stamina to finish your session feeling strong.
The Truth About Your Bones
Let’s address the big one: osteoporosis. For a long time we were told coffee consumption was a one-way ticket to brittle bones. But new analysis suggests that moderate coffee intake may actually have a protective effect on bone density. While caffeine can cause a tiny, temporary increase in calcium loss through your urine, studies find it’s so minimal that adding just two tablespoons of milk to your cup or taking a standard calcium supplement completely offsets it.
Sip with Confidence
The takeaway is simple: you can stop worrying and start enjoying. For those of us staying active over 50, moderate coffee consumption (2–3 cups a day) is a science-backed win for brain health, workout energy, and, despite what we were told years ago, even our skeletal strength. Just keep your calcium intake steady through a balanced diet, and your morning ritual will continue to serve you well.
Want to know more about today’s topic? Do you have a suggestion for future posts? Leave a comment below – I’d love to hear from you!
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