Depressed? You’re not the only one. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, at least 14.8 million U.S. adults suffer from some form of major depression. Thankfully, recent studies suggest there may be a simple and affordable solution. The treatment is painless, takes up relatively little time, and it’s already wildly popular. What is it?
Drinking two to four cups of coffee per day may curb the symptoms of depression, experts say. Moreover, research posits that moderate coffee consumption may even dramatically reduce suicide rates.
Are Women the Only Ones Benefiting?
“According to a large new study, women who drink caffeinated coffee are less likely to become depressed — and the more they drink, the more their risk of depression goes down,” Health magazine reports. The publication continues, “Drinking four cups a day was associated with a 20% lower risk of depression.” The Harvard study, published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, does not mention men. Does this mean that men do not reap the same health benefits from drinking coffee? That is up for debate. The study focused solely on women. Other studies, however, did include men.
“Drinking between two to four cups of coffee every day appears to reduce the risk of suicide in men and women by 50 per cent, according to a new study,” CNN says of further Harvard research. “Caffeine works by stimulating the central nervous system but may act as a mild antidepressant by increasing production of certain ‘feel good’ neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and noradrenaline,” The Daily Mail explains.
Coffee More Accessible Than Ever
The research comes in light of important shifts in the coffee industry. Mobile coffee shop franchises are becoming increasingly popular. Consumers no longer have to rely on large chains for their daily fix. Mobile coffee vans provide patrons with a quick and efficient stop for coffee on the way to work, or even during the sporting events and festivals.
Researchers agree. Regular coffee consumption may significantly reduce the likelihood of depression. Mobile coffee shop franchises are giving consumers more convenient ways to enjoy coffee on the go. More: cafe2u.com.au