Effects of Black Coffee

• Coffee is a beverage staple, a necessary part of the morning routine for millions. Coffee is taken for granted as the beverage that wakes you up for your day. However, some research suggests that the beverage, made from beans from the coffea arabica bush, actually offers a variety of health benefits.

Alertness

• Coffee is the first thing many people reach for when they get out of bed each morning for a reason: the beverage increases alertness and decreases fatigue. These effects are due to caffeine, a stimulant that affects the central nervous system, heart and muscles of the body.

Mood

• In moderation, the caffeine in coffee acts as a mild stimulant, decreasing feelings of fatigue and making you feel more alert. For some, even small amounts of caffeine can worsen existing anxiety. Coffee may also cause insomnia and nervousness, and cause a feeling of restlessness. In addition, WebMD cautions that drinking more than six cups of coffee per day can result in caffeinism, which can cause anxiety and agitation.

Stomach Upset and Headache

• Coffee is acidic, and can cause stomach upset and nausea. The drink may worsen heartburn and can cause vomiting for some. Some individuals also suffer from headaches as a result of drinking coffee. Caffeine withdrawal can also cause headaches.

Vital Signs

• The caffeine in coffee causes heart rate to rise. Caffeine may also raise blood pressure and increase adrenaline.

Health Benefits

• Regular consumption of coffee may stave off type-2 diabetes, according to WebMD, which cites research indicating that the antioxidants in coffee help prevent the disease. Further, WebMD notes that magnesium and chromium found in coffee may help to control blood sugar levels. Coffee may also decrease the risk of Parkinson's disease and dementia. The beverage also lessens the chance of cancer and stroke, according to WebMD.