MORNING GLORY

One is increased protection from brain diseases, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. That’s because of compounds called phenylindanes that are formed during the roasting of coffee beans. These inhibit the coalescing in the brain of two protein fragments that is seen in patients with degenerative brain illnesses.

The energising effects of a morning cup of coffee are known to sleep-starved adults the world over, but two new studies suggest that there are more benefits to drinking coffee than just helping you get out of bed.

Another is a reduced risk of heart disease and obesity, thanks to the caffeine in coffee. The stimulant promotes the movement of a regulatory protein into cardiovascular cells, enhancing their ability to function and preventing them from damage, according to the journal PLOS Biology. Just don’t drink any coffee too late in the day, so sleep isn’t affected.