Coffee is an essential part of life for a majority of the world’s population. Some people need to start their day with a morning coffee to wake up and have a productive day, others drink five or six cups of coffee every day or, in my case, the typical coffee in the afternoon to finish the day strong.
Coffee can be appreciated as a cultural experience in many different countries, and at the same time, it plays an important role in social relationships. How many times have you met with your family or friends to have a coffee?
For example, in my home country, Spain, it is really typical to do “la sobremesa.” This is a cherished cultural tradition that takes place after a meal. Family and friends remain seated at the table, conversing, laughing and savoring each other’s company instead of departing as soon as the food is done. The goal is to prolong the time spent connecting and conversing, not to increase food intake. Actually, “la sobremesa” can occasionally last longer than the actual meal, transforming lunch or supper into a leisurely, communal activity. In this sense, coffee serves as a social tool in Spain in addition to being a beverage. This tradition is also very common in many Latin American countries.
On the positive side, coffee has strong stimulating properties. Caffeine makes you more awake, helps you focus better and even boosts your physical performance. Coffee can be a key component in helping athletes, professionals and students stay motivated and focused. More than merely a source of energy, coffee can really promote health when consumed in moderation since it includes antioxidants that may guard against specific ailments.
On the other hand, excessive intake can result in dependency, anxiety and insomnia. After just a few glasses, many people become agitated or restless, transforming what ought to be a straightforward pleasure into a cause of anxiety. Additionally, the habit can easily become addictive, and it can be challenging to stop due to withdrawal symptoms like headaches and exhaustion.
Opinion articles express the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the entire Owl staff or of the university as a whole.
