27 Feb 2019

The compelling case for coffee – health benefits at work

The good news on coffee just keeps pouring in

At Sprout Coffee HQ, we’ve always known that coffee did more for us than just lift our spirits. Beyond its ability to kick start us in the morning or get us over the mid-afternoon slump, a shot of espresso or flat white offers far more in the way of health benefits than most people give it credit for. So, we thought we’d share the facts about a range of health and wellbeing benefits that are compelling smart companies to invest in a better coffee experience for their employees.  

“Overall, the research shows that coffee is far more healthful than it is harmful. For most people, very little bad comes from drinking it, but a lot of good.” Tomas DePaulis, PhD, research scientist at Vanderbilt University’s Institute for Coffee Studies

Coffee at work keeps us alert and productive

We don’t need science to tell us that drinking coffee at work improves focus and energy levels. (But if you want to know the science, it’s because caffeine blocks adenosine, the brain chemical which signals drowsiness.) It’s also known to improve working memory. Coffee switches us on; it gets us motivated, invigorating the mind and preparing us for whatever lies ahead. The knock-on effect of this mental clarity is boosted productivity, confidence and a sense of achievement – and who doesn’t want a little more of that?

Coffee gives us a break from work and helps us connect

Taking short coffee breaks during the working day delivers countless wellbeing benefits. As well as giving us the opportunity to stand up, move around and get away from our desks, the ritual of coffee making gives us time and space to pause and reflect. Gathering round the coffee machine at work encourages informal conversation and social support that’s crucial in relieving workplace stress and deepening a sense of belonging.

Coffee may reduce the risk of certain diseases and cognitive decline

Coffee contains micronutrients riboflavin (vitamin B2), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), manganese, potassium, magnesium and niacin (vitamin B3). More importantly, it’s super-concentrated with a variety of antioxidant compounds that have disease fighting properties. Recent studies suggest it may guard against the risk of stroke, certain forms of cancer, cirrhosis of the liver and type 2 diabetes. A growing amount of research suggest that lifelong coffee intake may even protect against age-related cognitive decline and dementia. Good news for employers of our ageing population.

Coffee helps our mood

Coffee drinkers know that if you drink a cup, you feel better. But scientists too are in little doubt that caffeine is effective in boosting our mood. In fact, research from Portugal, the US and Brazil suggests that caffeine may block receptors from causing a stress response such as bad mood and even depression. We all get stressed at times, particularly in the workplace. Offering staff a refreshing coffee experience is a simple strategy that keeps them happier and healthier.

Ethically sourced coffee revitalises your people, coffee producers and the planet

When coffee is such an integral part of our lives at home and at work it’s good to know it delivers so many physical and emotional perks. Of course, for peace of mind it’s important to know that your coffee is sourced ethically and not consumed at the expense of the growers or the environment. We’re proud to say that Sprout Coffee is Fairtrade and fully sustainable at every stage of the supply chain. This means it’s the healthy choice for your body, for growers and farming communities and for our planet.

To find out how you could be enjoying your own office coffee machine and quality Fairtrade coffee and tea, phone 1300 870 151. Or book a Sprout Coffee free trial online today.

  Disclaimer: Although moderate consumption of coffee is generally safe for healthy people, it may not be for everyone, since medications, comorbidities and personal genetics influence potential benefits and risks. For more information on coffee and health, see https://www.coffeeandhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Coffee-in-the-Workplace-report-FINAL-250917.pdf