Science says: this drink makes you happier
Good news for lovers of oat cappuccino: scientists have discovered that drinking coffee makes you a happier person. Since my daily cup of coffee is a real celebration for me (I was dreaming about my caffeine fix for today last night), I am of course very happy with this news. I like to feel good, but sometimes I can also be as lazy as possible. Fortunately, according to this research, that's not a problem. In fact: investing in your mental health has never been easier. Are you looking for more happiness in your life? Coffee is the answer.
Caffeine causes dopamine
The science behind this is actually very simple. Consuming caffeine results in the release of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a feel-good neurotransmitter that creates a sense of excitement and reward. The quick dose of dopamine provides a feeling of happiness, even if it's just for a moment. Scientists also see drinking coffee as health-promoting behavior. This is because it brings some spice to your day and can give you a quick shot of joy without harming your body (which is the case with smoking or alcohol, for example). Knowing that you are doing something healthy indirectly leads to feelings of satisfaction and self-respect, which can greatly contribute to your mood and mental health in the long run.
Blue zones
This research has also shown that people living in the ‘blue zones’ of the world (the places where people are happiest and live longer and healthier) rarely skip their cup of coffee. However, people in these zones also eat less red meat, sugar, and dairy products, while they consume more lean proteins, fibers, raw and fermented foods, and healthy fats, and eat seasonally. You often find blue zones in sunny places like Nicoya in Costa Rica and Ikaria in Greece. It is clear that regularly drinking coffee is not solely responsible for their happy existence. But let's be honest: a double espresso on a sunny terrace in the middle of Sardinia would solve all my problems right now. It's definitely a lot cheaper than therapy.
Source: Well + Good
