Coffee is a popular beverage in Malaysia, and it is consumed by people of all ages. There are many coffee shops and cafes throughout the country that serve a wide variety of coffee drinks, including traditionally brewed coffee, espresso-based drinks, and iced coffee. Malaysia is also home to a number of coffee plantations, and coffee is an important commodity in the country. The main type of coffee grown in Malaysia is Arabica, which is known for its mild flavour and pleasant aroma. In addition to traditional coffee shops, coffee is also widely available in other settings, such as restaurants, malls, and convenience stores. Many Malaysians enjoy coffee as a morning pick-me-up or as a way to stay energized throughout the day. It is also a common beverage to be served during social gatherings and meetings.

In Malaysia, you can get coffee almost anywhere. By the side of the road, order from baiya in Mamak and if you feel fancier, you can get coffee from the shopping mall. These types of coffee are often loaded with high amounts of sugar which are unhealthy for you. In Love Earth, we have created a coffee that is not only tasty but also healthy for you. Keep reading more to learn about coffee and why people love it so much!

Short History of Coffee

Coffee is believed to have originated in Ethiopia, where it has been consumed for centuries. According to legend, coffee was discovered by a goatherd named Kaldi, who noticed that his goats became more energetic after eating the berries from a certain type of tree. Kaldi shared his discovery with the local monks, who began to use the berries to stay awake during their long hours of prayer. The coffee plant eventually made its way to Yemen, where it was cultivated and the first coffee beans were roasted and brewed. From Yemen, coffee spread to other parts of the Middle East, and it became an important part of the culture and economy in countries such as Turkey, Egypt, and Iraq. In the 15th century, coffee made its way to Europe, where it was initially met with suspicion and mistrust. However, it eventually became popular in Italy and other parts of Europe, and coffeehouses began to spring up in cities across the continent. Today, coffee is a popular beverage all around the world, and it is grown in countries on every continent except Antarctica (1). 

Why do People Love Coffee So Much?

Coffee is a popular beverage that many people enjoy for its taste and the energizing effects of caffeine. Some people enjoy the ritual of preparing and drinking coffee, and it can also be a social activity. In addition, coffee has a long history and has played an important role in many cultures. Many people also appreciate the flavour and aroma of the coffee, and there are many different types and roasts to choose from, allowing people to find the perfect coffee to suit their taste. Finally, coffee is widely available and can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, making it a convenient and accessible beverage for many people.

Benefits of Coffee

1. Coffee can enhance energy levels

Coffee contains a stimulant called caffeine, which can help to improve alertness and concentration, as well as increase energy levels. Caffeine works by blocking the effects of a neurotransmitter called adenosine, which helps to regulate sleep and wakefulness. When caffeine blocks the effects of adenosine, it can help to increase energy levels and make you feel more awake and alert (2). 

Many people rely on coffee as a source of caffeine to help them stay energized and alert throughout the day. However, it's important to be mindful of your caffeine intake, as too much caffeine can cause side effects such as jitters, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping. It's generally recommended to consume no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine per day, which is about four cups of coffee (3). 

2. Coffee can support weight management

While coffee itself is relatively low in calories, it is not a magic solution for weight loss. However, some research suggests that caffeine, a natural compound found in coffee, may have a small effect on weight management. One study found that caffeine can increase the number of calories burned at rest by up to 10%, and it may also help to boost the metabolism by up to 11%. Additionally, caffeine has been shown to increase the breakdown of fats in the body, which can help to reduce body weight (4). 

However, it's important to note that the effects of caffeine on weight management are generally modest and are not likely to be significant on their own. In addition, the weight loss benefits of caffeine may be reduced or eliminated if you consume your coffee with sugar, cream, or other high-calorie additives. Ultimately, maintaining a healthy weight is about achieving a balance between calorie intake and expenditure, and it requires a combination of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and other healthy lifestyle habits.

3. Coffee helps lower the risk of type 2 diabetes

There is some evidence to suggest that coffee consumption may be associated with a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic condition that occurs when the body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin or when the pancreas is unable to produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels in check.

Several studies have found that coffee drinkers have a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes compared to non-coffee drinkers. One review of 18 studies found that each daily cup of coffee was associated with a 7% reduced risk of type 2 diabetes (5). 

The specific mechanisms by which coffee may reduce the risk of diabetes are not fully understood, but it is thought that the compounds in coffee may help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation in the body, both of which are important in the development of type 2 diabetes. It's important to note that while coffee may have some potential health benefits, it is not a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle, which are the most important factors in the prevention of type 2 diabetes.

4. Coffee can improve your mood

Many people find that coffee can help to improve their mood and make them feel more alert and focused. This is due to the effects of caffeine, which is a stimulant that can help to improve brain function and increase energy levels. 

In addition to the mood-boosting effects of caffeine, coffee has a number of other compounds that may positively impact mood. For example, coffee contains antioxidants, which are compounds that help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Some studies have suggested that these antioxidants may help to reduce the risk of depression and other mood disorders (6). 

Love Earth Low Sugar Natural Black Coffee with Bamboo Salt 

Written by: Alia Adrina Asri

Love Earth Nutritionist

BSc Nutrition (Hons)