Why Is Coffee So Controversial?

We have recounted the history of coffee in several blogs, and you would think that by now, there would be very little left to say about whether it is good or bad for you. Yet it remains a subject of controversy that exercises the scientists. They ponder how much is too much, the health benefits and the dangers, and the arguments rumble on.

One of the most recent studies, reported in the Guardian, contains claims that it could prevent bowel cancer from recurring.

Historical Coffee Controversy

Perhaps the continuing controversy stems from the fact that coffee was initially very much thought of as a sort of medicine: “Turkish merchants brought coffee to Venice, where it was prescribed for disorders of the digestive system”.

By the time the popular Coffee Houses in London were established, many outlandish health benefits were being claimed for the new beverage. They included everything from closing the orifice of the Stomach and fortifying the heart within to causing impotence, which prompted a petition. This was the 1674 Women’s Petition Against Coffee.

In the USA, businessman CW Post launched an anti-coffee campaign. However, this was, in fact, motivated by his desire to sell Postum, a roasted wheat bran beverage that his company manufactured.

The Popularity Of Coffee

Nevertheless, we have continued to drink coffee, and it remains popular, but scientists are still focused on whether it is good for you or not, how much you should—or should not—drink each day, and whether it has health benefits.

A 2023 report from the National Coffee Association found that 63% of Americans drink coffee every day. According to the British Coffee Association, in 2023, coffee reportedly overtook tea as the UK’s favourite drink.

The Health Benefits of Drinking Coffee

Some scientists quote a variety of health benefits. “Certain compounds, for example, have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, Giovannucci explains. Others reduce insulin resistance, which is a risk factor for diabetes”.

Drinking three to four cups a day has been linked to reduced cardiovascular mortality, certain cancers and neurological, metabolic and liver conditions.

The Downsides of Drinking Coffee

But, on the other hand there have been scientists who have warned of increase blood pressure from high coffee consumption.

Additionally, “The stimulant effect of coffee can cause anxiety in sensitive people and could disturb sleep.”

The arguments rage on, and it seems there is no end in sight to controversies about the drink that makes you smile.

Overall, the health and welfare benefits seem to be many more in number than any health and welfare negatives. Where there are any negatives it is encouraging for us that these seem to impact very few people.

One thing is for sure however and that is that the quality of many great coffees contributes to people’s consideration of enjoying a great coffee experience, and for this blog, we’d love to recommend that you enjoy a little purchase and discover why the Christopher Montrose Columbian Huila coffee is particularly popular with both our prised baristas and chefs as well as home coffee aficionados.