Survey reveals 63% of FBHS students drink coffee daily

                   by Kyle Manguilin

                  A survey conducted by The Citizen found that 63 percent of Fort Bonifacio High School (FBHS) students drink one or two cups of coffee in a day either to stay awake, to taste the coffee, or to achieve a greater mood.

Out of 213 respondents, about  24% said they drink coffee for the sole purpose of being awake, 21% said they drink because it tastes good, 18% said they drink to have energy and a greater mood, and the rest said they do not drink coffee at all.

Coffee has been prominent to people who wanted to become more energized, feel happy, have more focus, and to feel awake. Although coffee has positive outputs on one’s energy levels, emotions, and focus, it also has its fair share of unbeneficial results.

In essence, it is not the coffee that helps people with their productivity, but the caffeine in it— the same caffeine present in energy drinks, soft drinks, tea, and even chocolate drinks. Caffeine is a drug that stimulates the brain and the nervous system. 

Health Benefits

                  Beyond the energy boost, coffee offers several health benefits. It is rich in antioxidants, compounds that help fight oxidative stress and reduce the damage caused by free radicals in the body. Studies have also suggested that regular coffee consumption may lower the risk of developing conditions like Type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.

                  However, while coffee can be beneficial in moderation, its effects are not without potential drawbacks.

Risks of Overconsumption

                  According to Kris Gunnar's article, “Coffee—Good or Bad,” the impact of caffeine on the body can vary depending on individual tolerance levels.  Excessive consumption can lead to dependence, resulting in symptoms like headaches, irritability, and fatigue when intake is reduced. Overstimulation from caffeine can also disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia or poor-quality rest, building a disturbing cycle of fatigue and reliance on coffee.

Finding the Right Balance

                  Experts, including those at the Mayo Clinic, agree that moderation is the key to coffee consumption. Most studies recommend limiting daily intake to about two to four cups. Listening to your body is crucial; if coffee makes you jittery or affects your sleep patterns, it may be wise to reduce your intake or avoid drinking coffee late in the day.

Ultimately, coffee can be beneficial or harmful, all depending on how it is consumed. Moderation is key in ensuring that a cup of coffee can make a day without ruining a lifetime.